Loudonville, NY - Manhattan came out with a purpose on Sunday afternoon at Siena, applying pressure on the Saints early before getting a late winner with 76 seconds left on a goal from Olivia McMaster. When the 1-0 scoreline went final, Manhattan punched their ticket to the MAAC Semifinals and will face Fairfield on Thursday night.
Manhattan launched their attack from the wings on Sunday and got the energy boost they needed from senior winger Sami Derrico. The Harrington Park, New Jersey native had an early chance that sailed over the right post. Despite not coming away with a goal, the opportunity was a positive sign for a Jaspers team that couldn't muster a shot on goal in the same confines only 18 days ago.
Led by the likes of Megan Stowell, Kaylee's twin sister, and Catherine Rogers, Siena was able to generate enough pressure to keep the Manhattan defense on high alert. But time and time again, Molly Brunk came up with a big save to stave off the offensive-minded Saints.
McMaster's goal was her first since scoring at CCSU on Aug. 28. McMaster was named Jersey Mike's Player of the Game.
Coaches Reaction
Head coach Brendan Lawler on the Jaspers' competitive level on the road: "Our Players deserve so much credit today against an excellent Siena team. They gave everything they had and answered every bell."
"There are a few things to improve on in the attacking half going into Fairfield, but we will enjoy this moment before we start our prep for Fairfield tomorrow."
Next Time Out
The Jaspers will trek to No. 1 Fairfield for the MAAC Semifinals which will start at 7 PM on Thursday, Nov. 4. The action will be streamed on ESPN+.
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