AMHERST, Massachusetts - UMass Lowell (6-5-4) extended their winning streak to two games with a commanding 3-1 victory over UAlbany (2-12-2) on Sunday afternoon in America East conference play. The River Hawks controlled much of the possession while demonstrating clinical finishing in front of a spirited home crowd.
Kirti Craig opened the scoring for UMass Lowell in the 2nd minute, capitalizing on an early attacking surge. UAlbany's Tamia Nelson equalized in the 7th minute with a well-placed shot to the lower left corner. The match remained deadlocked until the 62nd minute when Gaby Eckroth restored the River Hawks' lead off an assist from Megan Banzi. Nora Belin sealed the victory in the 84th minute, converting a set piece opportunity with assists from Hilary Jaen and Maddie Guthrie.
The first half saw UMass Lowell establish their dominance early, generating multiple scoring opportunities through their pressing attack. The River Hawks recorded 8 shots in the opening period, with Craig and Eckroth particularly active in the final third. UAlbany goalkeeper Claudia Volino made three crucial saves to keep her team in contention, while the Great Danes struggled to maintain consistent possession against UMass Lowell's high pressure.
The second half witnessed increased intensity from both sides, with UMass Lowell's tactical adjustments proving decisive. Head coach Mira Novak's decision to introduce fresh legs through substitutions Marissa Sage and Nina Hertz-Saebbo around the hour mark helped maintain the River Hawks' attacking momentum. The hosts' pressure finally paid off with Eckroth's go-ahead goal, followed by Belin's insurance tally that effectively sealed the result.
Statistically, UMass Lowell dominated the encounter, outshooting UAlbany 22-9 with seven shots on target compared to the visitors' five. The River Hawks also held a 7-3 advantage in corner kicks. Both teams received one yellow card each, with UMass Lowell's Eliana Parreira and UAlbany's Mariella Fulcher cautioned in the 57th and 66th minutes respectively.
Rachel Welch delivered a strong performance in goal for UMass Lowell, recording four saves including a crucial stop on Angie McLoughlin's 71st-minute attempt that could have leveled the score. For UAlbany, Claudia Volino made four saves while facing consistent pressure throughout the match. Gaby Eckroth was particularly impactful for the River Hawks, registering multiple shots and scoring what proved to be the winning goal.
The tactical battle showcased UMass Lowell's superior organization in midfield, with Megan Banzi and Kirti Craig consistently winning possession and initiating attacks. UAlbany attempted to counter through quick transitions, but struggled to break through the River Hawks' disciplined defensive structure, anchored by strong performances from the backline.
This victory continues UMass Lowell's positive momentum, building on their recent win over Vermont and extending their unbeaten run to three matches. For UAlbany, the loss marks their sixth straight defeat, highlighting their ongoing struggles to find consistency in conference play.
The River Hawks' ability to control the tempo and create quality chances ultimately proved decisive, with their second-half execution reflecting their current good form. UMass Lowell will look to maintain their winning streak when they visit Bryant on October 30, while UAlbany aims to snap their losing run when they host Vermont on the same date.