ALFRED, NY (September 11, 2021) --- The King's College women's soccer team battled hard for 90 minutes in their season opener against Alfred University but fell short in a 3-1 loss on Saturday night.

The Monarchs started the match strong as Gabriella Porchetta got off the first shot in the opening minute that missed wide. The first shot on goal for King's came in the eighth minute from Madelyn Reuter as she struck the ball from close range forcing a save from Hannah Fuller. Just minutes later Monarch keeper Alyssa Accordino was forced to make a save off a shot by Alyssa Smith. Alfred took to the attack again in the 21st minute with consecutive shots but the Monarch defense held strong blocking the first shot and guiding the second shot wide. The remainder of the first half saw a defensive battle but neither side was able to break through.

The second half got off to an aggressive start with both sides fighting for possession. Alfred broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half with a goal from Karah Landries. The match got physical following the opening goal as both teams exchanged fouls. The Saxons were able to increase the lead to 2-0 in the 65th minute when Jacey Palmgreen found the back of the net. 

After making a few substitutions, King's increased their pressure in the attacking third and created several dangerous scoring opportunities. In the 75th minute Lauren Chapple opened up the scoring for the Monarchs by netting her first collegiate goal. This cut Alfred's lead to 2-1 with 15 minutes remaining in the game. AU answered quickly to expand their lead to 3-1 in the 86th minute after a penalty kick was called following a KC foul.

Reuter, Porchetta, Breanna Jacinto, Leah Sankey, and Kristina Keithley each had a shot for King's. Fuller made two saves for Alfred while Accordino had one save for the Monarchs.

King's will return to action on Monday evening with a road match at Keystone College in La Plume, PA. Kickoff is set for 7 pm at Keystone College Turf Field and Track & Field Complex.