Falcons Secure 1-0 Victory Against Salem State in Conference Opener
The Fitchburg State women’s soccer team earned their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Salem State University on Saturday afternoon. A strong defensive performance helped the Falcons control the game and secure a critical conference win.
Both teams opened the game with strong defensive intensity, exchanging possession frequently. On a drizzly afternoon, both the Falcons and the Vikings fought for control, creating a tense conference opener. A heated conference match was what we all expected. The Lady Falcons looked to defend their home field in their first conference game of the season.
Back and forth as we went the first half madness continued. The Lady Vikings seemed to keep their foot on the gas, gaining possession for a huge portion of the first half. The Falcons regain control of the ball to place pressure on the Vikings defense.
With five minutes remaining in the first half, the Falcons created several dangerous opportunities inside the box but couldn’t break through until the pivotal moment arrived. The Falcons offense continued to keep the pressure in the attacking third. In the 40th minute, a collision between Salem State’s Olivia Henke and Fitchburg’s Joanie Butler in the penalty area resulted in a penalty kick for the Falcons.
It was a chance to net the Falcons’ first goal of the season. Butler went right at the ball, stuttered, then shot it off the hands of the keeper, sinking it toward the right side of the net. GOAL! The Falcons scored, and Butler looked relieved to have scored.“ I really just felt relieved. I was kind of convinced that I was going to miss, which is why I didn’t really celebrate.”
Falcons look to hold on to the momentum as they enter the second half up 1-0, outshot the Vikings nine to five with shots on net.
The second half was a defensive battle, with both teams pushing to control possession. Salem State increased their aggression, but Fitchburg’s defense stayed strong and disciplined, preventing any clear chances. The Vikings came out ultra aggressive on both ends of the pitch trying to create several plays to get back into the game. However, the Falcons stayed composed and played the game at their pace not letting Salem State rush them.
With time ticking and the Falcons trying to secure their first win of the season the Vikings kept on the pressure. Attacking the Falcons and keeping the ball in the box making several plays, Vikings were eager to net a goal. In an attempt to try and make an aggressive defensive play, Taylor Senecal, a senior defender for the Falcons commits a foul in the penalty area on Salem State’s Krysta Zamejtis resulting in a penalty kick for the Vikings.
The stadium pulsed at an all-time high at that moment. Zamejtis struck the ball towards the left side of the net. However, Madison Dawkins, a sophomore goalkeeper, saved the penalty kick with the ball bounced out of her hands the play continued. With a chance to redeem herself Zamejtis shoots again but Madison Dawkins saves the day for the Falcons once again denying the ball from going through. An outstanding play that sealed the game for the Lady Falcons.
Fitchburg State’s women’s soccer team showcased a solid performance to secure their first win of the season. The Falcons look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches against Wentworth and Bridgewater.“ We’re happy with the win and we’re going to try to channel that into our game against Wentworth on Wednesday and our next conference game against Bridgewater on Saturday.”
