NEWARK, Del. - - A late second half goal doomed the Wilmington University women's soccer team in a 2-1 loss to Bridgeport in nonconference action at the WU Athletics Complex on Tuesday afternoon.
The Wildcats (5-3-2) controlled the majority of the contest, but had trouble creating chances in the final third of the field. Bridgeport (6-6) scored on their first opportunity of the game and then the Wildcats needed to play catch-up from there.
The Wildcats commanded the first 10 minutes of the game, pushing the envelope with five offsides in the first 7:07 of the game. Krysta Memis had the game's first chance, being left alone in front of the goal in the ninth minute. But her shot was saved by Clara Karlsson to keep the game scoreless.
The foul by the Wildcats gave the Purple Knights a free kick from the right side. The initial ball was cleared away, but the Purple Knight played the ball right back into the box. Andrea Basilicato got on the end of a cross from Livia Busin, scoring in the 11th minute for her third goal of the year.
It didn't take long for the Wildcats to answer back, converting an early corner kick in the 22nd second. Kasie Lambert sent a ball to the back post where Samantha Emmi was waiting to head it home to tie the game, 1-1. It was Emmi's third goal of the year, all coming off set plays.
Bridgeport had two more chances on free kicks in the first half, but the first was saved by Emily Camp and the other rang off the crossbar in the 38th minute.
The Wildcats dialed up the pressure again to start the second half, but a shot from Kasie Lambert was saved and another shot from Lauren Hoelke was blocked out in front.
Bridgeport finally broke the tie with their third corner of the second half, getting on the end of a loose ball after a big scramble in front of the goal. Evelyn Hammer scored for her third goal of the year, proving to be the game-winner.
Shots were identical, 7-7, but the Wildcats held the advantage on corners, 8-3. Emily Camp made three saves for the Wildcats while Clara Karlsson made four saves for the Purple Knights.
The Wildcats are right back to action on Thursday as they host the College of Staten Island for their final nonconference game of the year on Thursday afternoon. The opening whistle is set for 3:30 p.m. at the WU Athletics Complex.
