SELINSGROVE, PA (September 1, 2022) – The Susquehanna University Women's Soccer team faced a stiff test in their season opener, hosting non-conference opponent Misericordia University, who start the season ranked seventh in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 National Poll. The River Hawks showed tremendous energy and grit in the match, but ultimately couldn't get a push going on offense, falling 2-0 to the Cougars.

Both teams began the match at a high-octane pace, trading possession and fighting hard for every ball. Misericordia soon took the upper hand in possession, keeping the River Hawks pressed in their own end. They would notch their first score after eleven minutes, with a beautiful, looped shot from the edge of the box just barely beating the outstretched glove of first-year Paisley Tornatore. She would prove to be the standout performer for SU throughout the game in only her first collegiate game. The shots would continue to pepper her goal throughout, with intermittent counterattack chances from the River Hawks, mainly funneled through senior forward Emily Wertz, who finished the game with three shots and the team's only shot on goal.

Meanwhile, Tornatore held firm despite facing ten shots in the first half alone, not allowing the Cougars to expand their lead before the half. It would be more of the same in the second half, with the Tornatore and the defense holding out for awhile before a second goal finally came for Misericordia on a powerfully struck free kick shot from around 30 yards out, blistering into the top right corner.

In all, the Cougars tallied 22 shots, with 12 on frame. Tornatore made a remarkable 10 saves in her collegiate debut, keeping the scoreline close and giving the defense some great confidence.

SU will stay at home for their next contest, preparing to host the Aggies of Delaware Valley University on Sunday, September 4, kicking off at 2:30 PM at Sassafras Multipurpose Field.

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--RIVER HAWKS--