Saint Joseph’s women’s soccer team secured a 1‑0 victory over Bucknell on Sunday, edging the Bison in a tightly contested match that hinged on early aggression and a disciplined defensive finish.
Early Strike Sets the Tone
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when senior forward Sarah Fisher met a low cross from Olivia Benzing, slotting the ball past the Bucknell keeper to put the Hawks ahead. It marked Fisher’s fourth goal in as many games, underscoring her early‑season form.
The first half belonged to Saint Joseph’s, who controlled possession and forced Bucknell into a series of defensive clearances. Goalkeeper Sarah McFarland delivered a pivotal save on Ashley Rhodes with just two minutes left before the break, preserving the narrow lead.
Second Half Shift
After the interval, head coach swapped in freshman keeper Lauren Lebo, a move that proved decisive. Lebo marshaled the backline with seven saves in the second half, denying Bucknell any breakthrough despite a surge in pressure.
Bucknell, fresh off a hard‑fought outing at Penn State, turned the tables in the latter period, outshooting the Hawks 17‑2 and earning 12 corners, nine of which came after the break. Yet despite the volume of chances, the Bison failed to convert any, leaving the score unchanged.
The match concluded with Saint Joseph’s holding firm, a result that reflects both the Hawks’ early firepower and their ability to adapt under fire in the second half. The win improves the team’s early season record and sets a positive tone heading into upcoming fixtures.
Bucknell will look to rebound on Thursday when they host Delaware at 7 p.m., while the Hawks prepare for their next challenge, hoping to carry the momentum forward.