Uniondale, N.Y. – The field hockey team opened its home slate this afternoon, hosting Adelphi for the eighth time in program history, where sophomore goalkeeper Kayla Balsamo recorded a career-best 16 saves in the 6-0 loss. The Lions move to 1-2 on the season, while the Panthers improve to 1-1.

How it Happened

• Adelphi tested the Lions in the opening minute with a shot from Kelly Johnson, but Balsamo was there to make the save. The sophomore came up with another save just a minute later to keep the game scoreless.
• Johnson struck in the fourth minute, finishing off a pass from Jena Geels to put the Panthers ahead 1-0.
• The visitors doubled the lead 10 minutes later, taking a 2-0 advantage into the second quarter.
• The Lions earned two corner chances late in the second frame but could not convert on the opportunity before halftime.
• The Panthers' offense made a push early in the second half, forcing Balsamo to make four consecutive saves.
• Johnson netted her second goal of the day soon after, stretching Adelphi's lead to 3-0.
• Senior Nikki Longhitano fired a shot, but Adelphi goalkeeper Tayla Szmack made the stop.
• Before the end of the third quarter, Adelphi's Izzy Leclair tapped in a rebound off Danielle Lister's shot to make it a 4-0 contest.
• The Panthers would add two more goals in the final quarter to close out a 6-0 victory.

Top Performances

• Balsamo tallied a career-high 16 saves, surpassing her previous mark of 13.
• Longhitano registered a shot on goal.
• Senior Gianna Mastrocco contributed a shot.

Up Next
The Lions are back at Mitchel Field in Uniondale, N.Y. on Saturday (Sept. 13) to host Maryville University. Game time is set for 1:00 p.m.