STONY BROOK, NEW YORK - Millie Davies needed just 19 minutes and 51 seconds to give Hofstra the early advantage, slotting home a precise cross before a crowd of 842 fans at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium. The early goal set the tone for what became an action-packed contest between two evenly matched conference foes.
The Pride's early breakthrough led to a more cautious approach from both teams, with Stony Brook struggling to create clear chances against Hofstra's organized defense. The Seawolves managed just three shot attempts in the first 30 minutes, while Hofstra controlled possession and looked to exploit Stony Brook's defensive vulnerabilities. Mathilde Braithwaite doubled Hofstra's lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a perfectly weighted through ball from Gabriella Marte in the 33rd minute.
The first half was marked by both teams' disciplined defensive efforts, with Hofstra's goalkeeper making two crucial saves to deny Stony Brook's attempts to get back into the game. Stony Brook's best chance came in the 28th minute when a promising attack was snuffed out by Hofstra's defense. Despite being down two goals, the Seawolves showed resilience, and their efforts were rewarded with a narrowed deficit heading into halftime.
The second half began with Stony Brook pushing hard to reduce the deficit. Their efforts were rewarded in the 64th minute when Hannah Maracina scored her third goal of the season, converting a well-worked set piece that was orchestrated by Hedvig Helling and Reilly Rich. The Seawolves continued to press, and their persistence paid off when Hedvig Helling scored her second goal of the match in the 72nd minute, assisted by Reilly Rich and Eva Sprewell, to level the score at 2-2.
However, Hofstra's experience in high-pressure situations ultimately told. Olivia Pearse scored the winner in the 78th minute, capitalizing on a swift counterattack that was initiated by Millie Davies and Aimee Hodgson. The Pride's victory was built on their ability to convert their chances, outshooting Stony Brook 20-14 and putting 10 shots on target compared to Stony Brook's 7.
The statistical ledger reveals a closely contested match, with Hofstra holding a marginal advantage in shot attempts (20-14) and shots on target (10-7). Stony Brook had slightly more corner kicks (4-3), but Hofstra's efficiency in front of goal proved decisive. Both teams showed discipline, with two yellow cards each, but Hofstra's clinical finishing ultimately secured their victory.
For Hofstra, the win represents their first conference victory in four matches, improving their record to 7-4-7 overall and 4-3-3 in conference play. They will look to build on this momentum when they host Northeastern next week. Stony Brook, on the other hand, suffered their second consecutive loss, dropping to 10-7-1 overall and remaining at 5-5-4 in conference play. They will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Binghamton on the road.
The afternoon belonged to Hofstra's attacking trio, who combined for three goals and two assists. Millie Davies' early strike set the tone for the match, while Mathilde Braithwaite and Olivia Pearse provided the finishing touches. For Stony Brook, Hannah Maracina and Hedvig Helling showed their quality with crucial goals, but ultimately, it wasn't enough to secure a point.
Key Players:
Millie Davies (Hofstra) – Scored the opening goal and assisted on the match-winner, showcasing her clinical finishing and playmaking abilities.
Mathilde Braithwaite (Hofstra) – Doubled Hofstra's lead just before halftime with a composed finish, capitalizing on Gabriella Marte's precise through ball.
Hannah Maracina (Stony Brook) – Pulled Stony Brook level with a well-taken goal, converting a set piece that was orchestrated by Hedvig Helling and Reilly Rich.
Hedvig Helling (Stony Brook) – Scored a crucial equalizing goal and assisted on Hannah Maracina's strike, demonstrating her creativity and finishing ability.