CHICOPEE, MASS. - The New England College women's soccer team fell to Elms College on Tuesday evening 2-0 in their Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.  

The teams battled early in the first half, each exchanging early chances to take a lead. The Blazers applied the pressure with back-to-back shots on goal, but senior goalkeeper Hollie Bomba (Seymour, Conn.) remained tough, making key saves for the visitors. Sophomore Madison Bowman (Coventry, Vt.) tested Blazers goalkeeper Breanna White with a well-placed strike, but White responded with a crucial save as the teams headed into halftime tied 0-0.  

The Blazers came out aggressive to start the second half, firing multiple shots that narrowly missed high and wide. Elms continued to fire shots on target, but Bomba came up with several big saves to keep the game scoreless. In the 83rd minute, the Blazers broke through, finding the back of the net to take a 1-0 lead. Just minutes later, they capitalized on a foul committed by the 'Grims to extend their lead to 2-0. The Blazers maintained their offensive pressure in the final minutes and secured the 2-0 win.  

The Blazers outshot the Pilgrims 22-5 with 11-2 shots on target differential. Bomba tallied 90 minutes in net with nine saves while White finished with two.  

The Pilgrims will kick off Fall Festival Weekend with a 3:00 PM match against GNAC opponent Mitchell College, highlighting the day with a special Senior Day celebration.  

For continuing coverage of New England College Athletics, visit athletics.nec.edu and follow the Pilgrims on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.