BRADFORD, PA – The Alfred University women's soccer team picked up a 3-1 road win over Pitt-Bradford on Wednesday afternoon from the Kessel Athletic Complex.

The Saxons (2-2, 0-0 Empire 8) finished with a season-high 33 shots, 14 of which were on goal. The Panthers (0-4, 0-0 AMCC) were limited to just two shots on the afternoon. 

Sophia Carretto (Canisteo, NY/Hornell) finished with one goal across three shots. Alyssa Smith (Pearl River, NY/Pearl River) scored once from two shots on goal. Kiani Barnard-Pratt (Westford, MA/Westford Academy) picked up one save in the win for AU.

"Our defense stepped up today and were effective in limiting Pitt-Bradford's chances," Graduate Assistant Coach Danielle Perry said. "It was great to get multiple scores on the board and get the win, but we still have some stuff to work on before our E8 opener."

The Saxons were persistent in the early stages of the first half, putting across three shots and two corner kick attempts within the first 15 minutes of action. A goal from Carretto in the 28th minute gave AU the early 1-0 advantage. Shortly after, Pitt-Bradford got themselves on the scoreboard to equalize the score. The Saxons forced five more shots before entering halftime with a 1-1 draw.

Just moments into the second half, an assist from Olivia Gilbert (Ontario, NY/Wayne Central) to Smith put the Saxons ahead, 2-1. Alfred University quickly extended their lead following a goal from Jacey Palmgreen (Rochester, NY/Greece Olympia). The Saxons defense only surrendered one additional shot on goal before securing the victory. 

"We still need to work offensively on capitalizing on our changes and getting more control of the game in the midfield," Perry said. "Today was another game for us to see what we need to work on to accomplish our goals this season."

Alfred University will next begin Empire 8 competition with a home matchup against Medaille University on Saturday at 6:00 PM.