NASHUA, N.H. - The New England College women's soccer team fell on the road to Rivier University 8-0 on Wednesday night.
Rivier applied pressure early in the first half, sending several shots toward the NEC goal that were blocked by the 'Grims defense. The Raiders continued to generate offensive chances, with freshman goalkeeper Nicole Fitzpatrick (Woburn, Mass.) making several saves for the visiting 'Grims. Rivier broke through midway through the half, finding the back of the net before adding three more goals to take a 4-0 lead into halftime.
The Raiders continued to apply offensive pressure in the second half, scoring early in the frame before adding another goal just minutes later to extend its advantage. The Pilgrims battled to generate scoring opportunities, but Rivier's defense held strong and kept NEC off the scoreboard. Freshman Grace Houde (New Boston, N.H.) was able to get past the Raider defense, firing a shot on frame that was stopped by Isabella Bachhuber. Freshman goalkeeper Cali Burnett (Grafton, Mass.) made several saves late in the half, but the Raiders continued to control the attack, finding the back of the net two more times to secure the 8-0 win.
Fitzpatrick recorded seven saves in net, while Burnett tallied three saves in relief.
The 'Grims return home Saturday to host Simmons University at 12:00 PM. Prior to Saturday's contest, the team will honor its graduating senior class.
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