OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Stevenson women's soccer fell to Susquehanna, 1-0, on Wednesday evening at Mustang Stadium.
Susquehanna struck early, finding the back of the net in the second minute to give the River Hawks a 1-0 advantage. Stevenson goalkeeper Sophia Valenzano responded shortly after, making a save in the fourth minute to keep the Mustangs within one.
Stevenson began generating opportunities midway through the opening half. Jalynn Mayfield-Rice put the Mustangs' first shot on goal in the 17th minute before Karly Sheahan followed with an attempt just minutes later. Elena Heins and Kailyn Beall each added shots on goal, but Susquehanna goalkeeper turned away both opportunities.
The Mustangs entered halftime trailing 1-0 despite holding a 5-4 advantage in shots during the opening 45 minutes. Stevenson also forced the River Hawks goalkeeper to make three first-half saves.
Susquehanna applied pressure throughout the second half, but Valenzano kept Stevenson within striking distance. The sophomore goalkeeper recorded five saves after the break, including stops in the 50th, 57th, 65th, 73rd and 81st minutes.
Stevenson looked for the equalizer late, with Sheahan recording an attempt in the 86th minute before the Mustangs earned a corner kick moments later. The River Hawks held off the late push to secure the 1-0 decision.
Valenzano finished the contest with six saves in 90 minutes of action. Stevenson recorded six shots, placing three on goal. Sheahan led the Mustangs with two attempts, while Heins, Beall and Mayfield-Rice each registered a shot on goal.
The Mustangs return to action on Saturday for senior day against Mary Washington. Game time is set for 1 p.m.
