The Monmouth University women's soccer team entered the match at Hesse Field with confidence, having opened the season with two wins and a draw. Early in the second half, the Hawks struck first, capitalizing on a dominant possession phase that gave them a 20‑15 shot advantage. Their early lead set the tone for a contest that would swing dramatically in the final minutes.
A decisive strike in the dying minutes
With the clock winding down, FDU earned a penalty that could have sealed the victory. Instead, Ashley Lavrich stepped up and converted the spot‑kick, her fourth goal of the campaign and third in the last two games. The equalizer not only salvaged a point but also extended Monmouth’s unbeaten streak to three matches, underscoring the team’s resilience under pressure.
Monmouth’s early control was evident throughout the first half, where they outshot FDU 10‑6 and maintained a high press that limited the opposition’s chances. The breakthrough came shortly after halftime when the Hawks’ forward line broke through the defense, establishing a lead that seemed secure until the late penalty shifted momentum.
Emerging talent shines
Freshman Saar van der Boom celebrated her first career goal, a milestone that added depth to the Hawks’ attacking options. Meanwhile, Maddie DeMaio continued her recent form, delivering assists in back‑to‑back games and contributing to the team’s fluid build‑up play. Evangeline Perdomo also chipped in with a key pass, highlighting the collective creativity in midfield.
Beyond the headline contributors, the squad displayed a breadth of talent, with players such as Chloe Messer, Loren Gehret, Brooke De Almeida, Leblanc and Tallulah Miller providing defensive solidity and additional attacking thrust. The breadth of involvement reflects a balanced roster that can adapt to varying in‑game scenarios.
Looking ahead to the next challenge
The Hawks now turn their attention to a Thursday showdown with St. John’s, scheduled for 2 p.m. on The Great Lawn. The upcoming match offers an opportunity to convert the momentum from the FDU draw into a full three points. Coach and captain alike emphasized the need to maintain defensive discipline while exploiting the opponent’s vulnerabilities, aiming to continue the upward trajectory of a season that has already delivered memorable moments.