AMHERST, MASSACHUSETTS — New Hampshire extended its winning streak to two matches with a 2-1 victory over UMass Lowell on Friday, capitalizing on an early offensive surge to secure three points on the road. The Wildcats, riding momentum after a dominant 4-0 win over NJIT last weekend, struck twice in the first half to control the contest before the River Hawks mounted a second-half comeback that fell just short.
Elias Khodri opened the scoring in the 6th minute, assisted by Xahvi DeRoza, giving New Hampshire an early advantage. Khodri added a second goal at the 17:59 mark to extend the lead to 2-0 and effectively put the match out of reach before halftime. The quick strikes set the tone for a New Hampshire side looking to climb back into contention in the America East Conference.
UMass Lowell, which entered the match on a two-game losing streak following defeats to UMBC and NJIT, struggled to find rhythm in the opening period. The home side managed only three shots on goal through 45 minutes, unable to generate sustained pressure against a New Hampshire defense that limited clear-cut opportunities. The River Hawks' inability to capitalize early proved costly as they trailed significantly at the break.
The second half brought renewed urgency from the hosts. Oscar Perez pulled one back for UMass Lowell at 46:22, narrowing the deficit and injecting life into a team desperate to salvage points at home. The goal sparked a more competitive final 45 minutes, with the River Hawks pressing forward in search of an equalizer