HAVERFORD, Pa. - The Haverford College women's soccer team (5-1) delivered a shutout against the Desales Bulldogs (2-4-1), prevailing 1-0 in Wednesday afternoon action on a cloudy afternoon at historic Walton Field.
The first half was a rather quiet one for the surging Haverford offense, as the Fords were only able to muster three shots on target, with two chances coming from Sarah Klink, and the other coming from Olivia D'Aulerio. Despite four threatening corner kicks from the Scarlet and Black, it was the visitors who ended up outshooting the hosts 5-3 in stanza number one.
Just 10 minutes into the second half, DeSales had their first prime opportunity of the game, as Kayla Kinniry put a shot on net, however, it was stopped by reigning Centennial Conference Defensive Player of the Week Lily Buyer.
Shots poured down on Walton Field as Bulldogs forward Madison O'Conner's attempt in the 60th minute and Haverford forward Madeline Dosen's shot in the 62nd minute were both denied by Buyer and Saige Santa Cruz.
In the 68th minute, Olivia D'Aulerio found the ball at her foot in the middle of the box and rifled a shot on frame. The initial shot was parried by Santa Cruz, but first-year attacker Carly Rusak was in the right place at the right time, hammering the rebound home to put Haverford up 1-0 mere seconds after entering the contest as a substitute.
The 75th minute saw the Scarlet and Black search for their insurance goal as a free kick at the top of the box was awarded after a Desales foul. Emma Kirk fired a free kick around the wall, but the menacing shot was saved by Santa Cruz.
Haverford's backline was able to withstand the Bulldogs efforts to find the equalizer, as the Scarlet and Black were able to hang on to a 1-0 victory.
After 90 minutes of play, Haverford claimed a 15-8 advantage in shots and a 7-0 advantage in corner kicks. Buyer ended the match with three saves, picking up her fourth shutout of the season, and third clean sheet in a row.
The Fords will return to action on Saturday, September 21, as the Scranton Royals come to the 'Ford for a non-conference matchup. Kickoff for the contest on Walton Field is slated for 1 p.m.
