OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Stevenson University women's soccer team battled back from a two-goal deficit to earn a 2-2 draw against Eastern University in Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Commonwealth action Wednesday evening at Owings Mills East. The Mustangs scored twice in the final 14 minutes of regulation, with goals from Marissa Struhar and Madison Rytina securing the comeback against the Eagles.
Eastern opened the scoring in the 26th minute when they found the back of the net off an assist, giving the Eagles a 1-0 advantage.
Despite trailing at halftime, Stevenson maintained an offensive presence throughout the opening 45 minutes, recording five shots and three corner kicks. Katelyn Lacey registered a shot on goal in the 27th minute, but Eastern goalkeeper made the save to preserve the lead.
The Mustangs came out aggressively in the second half, generating several scoring opportunities. Karly Sheahan placed a shot on target in the 64th minute, followed by an attempt from Ashley Bowman in the 71st minute, but both were turned away.
Eastern extended its lead to 2-0 in the 69th minute when they capitalized on another assist. Refusing to back down, Stevenson began its comeback in the 77th minute when Struhar found the back of the net off a feed from Madison Simard, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
Just over four minutes later, Rytina delivered the equalizer in the 82nd minute, bringing the Mustangs level at 2-2 and completing the late comeback.
Stevenson continued to apply pressure in the closing minutes, with Bowman recording another shot on goal in the 88th minute. However, the Eagles made the stop, and the contest concluded in a 2-2 draw.
The Mustangs held a 14-9 advantage in total shots, including a 9-6 edge in the second half. Stevenson also led 6-2 in corner kicks, highlighting its offensive pressure throughout the match.
Bowman, Lacey and Rytina each recorded two shots, while goalkeeper Isabella Serano finished with two saves in 90 minutes of action.
The Mustangs return to action on Saturday when they host York College for a 4 p.m. MAC Commonwealth matchup.
