TROY, NY - A contested conference matchup resulted in a 1-0 loss for the Alfred University women's soccer team against Russell Sage College on Saturday afternoon. 

The Saxons (3-4, 1-1 Empire 8) were limited to just five shots, while the Gators (3-4, 2-0 Empire 8) put across 16 shots, 12 of which were on goal. 

Kayla Silverstein (North Chili, NY/Churchville-Chili) finished with two shots. Alyssa Smith (Pearl River, NY/Pearl River) and Sierra Wilson (Lewiston, NY/Lewiston-Porter) each were credited with a shot on goal. Kiani Barnard-Pratt (Westford, MA/Westford Academy) picked up 11 saves. 

"Today was a tough game to swallow," Head Coach Craig Yanni said. "We have struggled offensively all season long and that continued today."

The Saxons defense faced five shots from the Gators in the opening half before earning their first corner kick opportunity. Russell Sage put across four more shots before entering halftime with a scoreless draw. In the second half, a breakaway opportunity for Russell Sage in the 68th minute resulted in finding the back of the net. The Saxons attempted five shots in the second half but couldn't equalize the score before the final horn. 

"We will have to continue to improve in all aspects of our play to get back in the win column on Wednesday," Yanni said.

Alfred University will next travel to face Penn State Altoona on Wednesday at 6:00 PM.