Alfred, NY - The Alfred University women's soccer team opened their spring season with a 2-0 loss to Utica College on Sunday at Yunevich Stadium.
 
The contest marked the season opener for both Alfred (0-1) and Utica (1-0). The Saxons last competed during the ECAC Championship Playoffs in November, where they went as far as the second round. 
 
Alfred remained persistent on offense, totaling 11 shots, three of which were on goal. The Saxons also earned five corner kick opportunities.

"We have a some work to do on the offensive end," said Head Coach Craig Yanni. "We were able to get a few good chances, but couldn't capitalize. There were also times I thought we were playing well."
 
Senior forward Kateline Cartwright (Le Roy, NY/Le Roy) finished with three shots, one being on goal. Junior midfielder Abigail Austin (Hornell, NY/Hornell) also finished with one shot on goal.
 
In goal, sophomore Hannah Fuller (Binghamton, NY/Chenango Forks) received the start and recorded two saves. First-year Jasmine Sims (Yorkshire, NY/Pioneer) entered the game for the final 10 minutes of action, recording impressive back-to-back saves for the Saxons.
 
Senior forward Sydney Cook and senior midfielder Jacinta Kaminski found the back of the net for Utica.
 
Alfred set the pace early on, attempting four shots in the first 16 minutes of the opening half. Utica found their first goal at the 29:51 mark, and entered halftime with a 1-0 advantage. The Pioneers extended their lead with a second goal during the final half of action.

"We have some time before our next game," said Yanni. "This was the first time that we were able to have our starting lineup together in a full field format."
 
The Saxons continue their spring season with a road contest versus St. John Fisher College on Saturday at 6pm.