SOMEWHERE, STATE — University of Mount Saint Vincent's women's soccer team delivered a dominant performance, defeating Purchase College 7-0 on Wednesday in a Division III matchup that showcased the stark difference between the two programs' current trajectories.
The scholar-athletes from UMSV controlled the match from start to finish, with Cameron Cruz opening the scoring in the 10th minute to set the tone early. Eva Puentes extended the lead in the 15th minute with an assist from Ariana Hernandez, before Hernandez herself found the net in the 24th minute off a Jazzlyn Cedillo assist. Puentes added her second goal in the 27th minute as UMSV built a commanding 4-0 halftime advantage. Michelle Zuniga scored in the 48th minute and again in the 72nd minute, with Emily Legler capping the rout with a 87th-minute goal assisted by Shayln Pryor.
The first half belonged entirely to UMSV's attacking unit. The home team's student-athletes dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, outshooting Purchase 24-3 overall with 14 shots on target compared to just one for the visiting Panthers. UMSV's offensive pressure was relentless, with Purchase's goalkeeper forced into seven saves as the home team's midfield controlled the tempo and dictated play. The Panthers, struggling with a 4-11-2 record and currently on a four-game losing streak, offered minimal resistance as UMSV's defense remained organized and composed throughout the opening 45 minutes.
The second half saw UMSV continue their dominance despite making multiple substitutions. Purchase attempted to adjust tact