LANCASTER, Pa. - The host Franklin & Marshall Diplomats (9-3-4, 4-2 CC) edged the Haverford College women's soccer team (6-8-3, 3-6 CC) with a narrow 1-0 victory at Tylus Field on Saturday evening.
The Diplomats struck early, lighting the scoreboard in the sixth minute. Katherine Finnerty redirected a well-placed ball from Kate Boujoukos, slotting it into the near post to give the visitors the early lead.
Haverford quickly responded, generating opportunities of its own, including a wide shot from Abigale Baker in the 13th minute. Lily Buyer responded to pressure by saving multiple shots as the Diplomats looked to extend the lead, notably stopping attempts by Emerson McDonald and Ellison Errington. Vilena Tchernychev and Emma Murray saw shot attempts sail wide as Haverford went into the intermission trailing 0-1.
The second half was marked by resilient defense, with goalkeeper Allie Billups making key saves, including one against McDonald in the 49th minute. Haverford's offense chased an equalizer, with shots from Baker and Olivia Daulerio saved by Franklin & Marshall keeper Lucy Fleming. Despite the two shots on target, Haverford was unable to find the back of the net in the second half.
Buyer recorded three saves in her 45 minutes between the pipes, facing four shots and conceding one goal. Billups contributed two saves in her 45 minutes, keeping Franklin & Marshall scoreless during her time in goal. Baker led the Fords in shots with three, placing one on goal, while Daulerio also managed a shot on goal in her lone attempt.
Finnerty led the Diplomats with a crucial game-winning goal, adding to her season tally with one of her two shots on target. Boujoukos provided the assist and attempted four shots in total, one of which was on frame. McDonald was active offensively, recording three shots with two on target. Fleming secured a shutout victory for the Diplomats with two saves.
Haverford will next host No. 13 Swarthmore on Saturday, November 1, at Walton Field in the regular season finale. The contest is slated for a noon start, and the Fords will honor the women's soccer Class of 2026 prior to kickoff.
