Goalkeeper
Madeline Cox was outstanding in net, making several key saves throughout the match and keeping the Pioneers within striking distance. Her efforts helped Alfred State stay competitive against a strong Buffalo State attack.
The Pios got off to a dream start when
Isabella Hoffmann found the back of the net just 8:52 into the match, giving Alfred State an early 1-0 lead and energizing the home crowd. Hoffmann's goal showcased the attacking pressure the Pioneers brought early as they looked to control the pace on their home field.
Buffalo State responded with three goals in the opening half, but Alfred State never stopped competing. The Pioneers tightened things up defensively after halftime, holding Buffalo State scoreless over the final 45 minutes and limiting the visitors' opportunities as they searched for a way back into the match.
Offensively, Hoffmann led the way with the team's lone goal, while the Pioneers continued to create chances and apply pressure throughout the contest. Alfred State's resilience and determination were evident as the team continued pushing forward until the final whistle.
Despite the result, the second-half performance provided plenty of positives. Alfred State played with greater cohesion, controlled more possession in dangerous areas, and showed the teamwork and effort that will serve the Pioneers well moving forward.
Head coach
Anne Holmok had this to say on the performance afterward.
"We need to create more scoring opportunities in the second half. I thought we played better as a team, and we got the ball across the 8 team, but we didn't, we didn't have any, we were taking shots, we were crossing the ball, not taking shots, so we have to make higher percentage scoring opportunities for ourselves and not making it so difficult."
The Pioneers will be back in action at 1pm on Saturday October 17
th taking on SUNY Cobleskill at Cobleskill NY.
