Stonehill College’s women’s soccer squad opened the season with a tightly contested non‑conference match against Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, only to see a late penalty swing the result in favor of the Crusaders.
A Late Penalty Decides the Game
The Skyhawks struck first in the 33rd minute when Kayla Cassidy, finding the net for the first time this season, redirected a pass from Annie Renz to level the score at 1‑1. Renz herself added an assist later in the match, linking up with Cassidy again in the dying minutes to force a 2‑2 deadlock.
Holy Cross answered early, opening the scoring in the 10th minute when Sam Halligan set up a teammate for the opening goal. The Crusaders extended their lead in the 79th minute after a penalty kick converted by Halligan, putting them ahead 2‑1.
Goalkeeper Jenna Hamel turned in a career‑high five saves, keeping Stonehill in contention despite the pressure. Her performance matched her single‑game career best, but the Crusaders’ penalty proved decisive.
The match concluded 3‑2 in favor of Holy Cross, with Cassidy and Renz’s late connection narrowing the gap but failing to secure a draw. Stonehill will look to rebound when they travel to face Providence College on August 27 at 6:30 p.m.