WORCESTER, MASSACHUSETTS - Karenna Beckstein needed just 117 seconds to write the story of Holy Cross's dominance over Army West Point, slotting home the opening goal before a crowd of 842 fans at Fitton Field. The Crusaders' 3-1 victory not only snapped Army's five-game unbeaten streak in their last six meetings but also extended Holy Cross's winning streak to three games, propelling them to a 7-5-3 overall record.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a clinical display by the Crusaders. Army West Point struggled to respond, and before they could mount any significant challenge, Holy Cross doubled their lead just 83 seconds later when Grace Pohlidal finished a precise through ball from Ragon Francy. The Black Knights' defense was caught out, and Pohlidal's composure in front of goal epitomized the Crusaders' ruthless efficiency.
The first half flow was characterized by Holy Cross's controlled possession and Army's attempts to wrestle back control. Emily Wilson orchestrated the Crusaders' midfield, dictating the pace with intelligent distribution that consistently found her teammates in space. As the half wore on, Abigail Cushing made it 3-0 with a well-taken finish, assisted by Beckstein's incisive pass that split the Army defense. The Crusaders' lead was deserved, given their dominance in shots on target, holding a 3-0 advantage at halftime.
The second half saw Army West Point make tactical adjustments, pushing more players forward in an attempt to salvage something from the match. However, Holy Cross remained organized at the back, marshaling their defense to deny the Black Knights any clear-cut chances. When Army finally managed to breach the Crusaders' defense in the 79th minute through a well-taken strike, it was too little, too late. Holy Cross responded almost immediately, with Cushing scoring her second goal of the match, assisted by Riley Grable, to restore the Crusaders' three-goal cushion.
The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two teams with contrasting fortunes. Holy Cross outshot Army West Point 8-5 on target, despite being outshot overall 15-13. The Crusaders' goalkeeper made four saves, while Army's goalkeeper was called upon five times. The Black Knights earned six corner kicks to Holy Cross's four, but failed to capitalize on their set-piece opportunities. The Crusaders' efficiency in front of goal was the decisive factor, as they converted three of their eight shots on target.
The victory represents more than three points for Holy Cross; it signifies a growing confidence in their ability to dominate opponents. With a 7-5-3 record, the Crusaders are now on a three-game winning streak, having secured important victories against tough opponents. Their next challenge will be against Loyola (MD), a team that has been inconsistent this season. Holy Cross will look to continue their momentum against the Greyhounds.
For Army West Point, the loss is a setback in their quest for a conference title. The Black Knights' record now stands at 11-6-2, and they have suffered their second loss in their last three matches. Their inability to capitalize on their scoring chances and their struggles at the back have been telling. Army will need to regroup quickly and address their defensive vulnerabilities before their next match against Bucknell.
The afternoon belonged to Holy Crossβand specifically to Karenna Beckstein, whose early goal set the tone for the Crusaders' dominance. The Crusaders' victory was a testament to their growing strength and resilience, and they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
Key Players:
Karenna Beckstein (Holy Cross) β Scored the opening goal and assisted Abigail Cushing's third, showcasing her clinical finishing and playmaking ability.
Grace Pohlidal (Holy Cross) β Doubled the Crusaders' lead with a composed finish, epitomizing Holy Cross's ruthless efficiency in front of goal.
Abigail Cushing (Holy Cross) β Scored two goals, including the third, to seal the victory for Holy Cross, demonstrating her predatory instincts in front of goal.
Emily Wilson (Holy Cross) β Orchestrated the Crusaders' midfield with intelligent distribution, dictating the pace and finding teammates in space throughout the match.