CORTLAND, NY - The Alfred University women's soccer team began their week with a 1-0 loss to SUNY Cortland on Wednesday afternoon. 

The Saxons (4-2-1, 0-0-1 Empire 8) defended 12 shots on goal, while totaling three corner kick opportunities in their efforts against the Red Dragons (3-2-1, 0-0-0 SUNYAC).

Kiani Barnard-Pratt (Westford, MA/Westford Academy) finished the game with a season-high 11 saves. Isabelle Dennis (Livonia, NY/Livonia), Alex Ruzekowicz (West Vale, NY/West Genesee) and Ava Thayer (Nunda, NY/Keshequa) each registered one shot on goal for the Saxons. 

"I was proud of how hard the team fought and how we executed the game plan," Head Coach Craig Yanni said. "We are looking forward to preparing for Sage this weekend."

Alfred University nearly scored in the early stages of the opening half, as a corner kick opportunity to Thayer in the 8th minute of action led to a defensive save for the Red Dragons. A corner kick in the 42nd minute led to a goal to give the Red Dragons the lead going into halftime. Barnard-Pratt continued to play well for AU throughout the afternoon, defending 19 shots in the second half. Dennis was the lone Saxon to record a shot on goal before time ran out in regulation. 

Alfred University will next return to Empire 8 competition, traveling to face Russell Sage College on Saturday at 1:00 PM.