PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island - The University of Maine at Farmington women's soccer team began their 2023 campaign on the road this evening on the road against Rhode Island College in a non-conference contest. The teams battled to a scoreless draw on NCAA Division III opening day for athletic events.

The two teams met in the final game of the regular season a year ago, a game that the Beavers cruised to a 3-0 victory at home. The Beavers did not have the same success this season, as they were unable to muster sustained offense throughout the contest, being outshot 28-4 for the evening.

The Beavers and sophomore goalkeeper Paige Gonya (Sabattus, Maine) were able to withstand pressure throughout the first half as the Anchorwomen were able to generate 13 shots, including five on net, all of which were met by Gonya to keep the game scoreless. RIC also generated five corner kicks in the first half, but were unable to convert on any of the opportunities. 

The Beavers best chance to score in the 34th minute when senior Emily Boyle (Orleans, Mass.) sent a through ball into the penalty area for fellow senior Audrey Fletcher (Monmouth, Maine). RIC goalkeeper Chloe Angelone raced off her line in an attempt to intercept Boyle's pass but Fletcher won the race to the ball, touched it around Angelone and gathered the ball against the endline. Fletcher sent a cross into the box that found junior Grace Mahmood (Oxford, Conn.) who attempted to volley the cross but could not solidly connect. The ball ricocheted to junior Abby Lash (Waldoboro, Maine) who was unable to get a strong foot on it as Angelone came across the goal mouth to scoop up the ball and shut down the Beavers scoring chance. 

The Beavers were unable to mount expanded pressure in the 2nd half, failing to register a shot on goal in the half. The Anchorwomen tallied 15 shots, four of which were on goal, all saved by Gonya.

Gonya picked up her first shutout of the season after recording three shutouts a season ago. Gonya picked up nine saves on the evening.

The Anchorwomen held a 9-1 advantage in shots on frame and a 8-0 advantage in corner kicks. 

Both teams move to 0-0-1 on the season.

UP NEXT

The Beavers travel to Clark University tomorrow afternoon to take on the Cougars in a non-conference battle set to kick-off at 3:00 pm.