WEST POINT, N.Y. - Boston University (4-4-3) overcame Army West Point (7-4-1) in a thrilling 3-2 victory on Wednesday afternoon at Clinton Field, with both teams trading momentum throughout the 90-minute contest.
The match featured multiple lead changes, with Army West Point striking first through Brigid Duffy's early efforts in the attacking third. Boston U. responded with determination, as Ava Maguire and Margy Porta created several dangerous opportunities before the equalizer. The teams continued trading goals throughout the match, with the final decisive strike coming in the second half.
The first half showcased Army's aggressive approach, with Brigid Duffy leading the charge with three consecutive shots in the 18th minute. Mackenzie Stickelman responded for Boston U. with a dangerous attempt in the 3rd minute, while Nina Tzouganatos tested Army's defense with a shot in the 13th minute. Grace Pohlidal and Grace Burns both registered attempts for Army before the break, demonstrating the Black Knights' offensive pressure.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides. Boston U.'s tactical adjustments paid dividends as Margy Porta struck the woodwork in the 67th minute. Army's Cami Silvestro and Bella Cooke maintained pressure with shots in the 63rd and 72nd minutes respectively. The match's intensity peaked late with Army's Megan Youngberg receiving a yellow card in the 89th minute for unsporting behavior.
Final statistics reflected the match's competitive nature, with Army West Point recording 25 shot attempts to Boston U.'s 15. The Black Knights earned 10 corner kicks compared to Boston's single corner, though the Terriers proved more efficient with their opportunities. Army's aggressive play resulted in two yellow cards, while Boston U. maintained their discipline throughout.
Individual performances shaped the outcome significantly. Giulianna Gianino demonstrated her influence for Boston U. with multiple shots and creative play in midfield, while Army's Brigid Duffy was particularly active with four shot attempts in the first half alone. Samantha Aronson provided crucial contributions for the Terriers, including a threatening attempt in the 71st minute that struck the crossbar.
Tactically, both teams employed different approaches. Army West Point utilized their width effectively, evidenced by their high corner kick count, while Boston U. found success through quick counterattacks and efficient finishing. The substitution patterns showed both coaches actively adjusting to the match's flow, with key changes including Army's removal of Bella Conti and Bella Cooke in the 61st minute as they sought to maintain their defensive structure.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for Boston U., who entered the match on an uneven run of form including a recent draw against Loyola Maryland. For Army, the loss interrupts their momentum following a commanding 4-0 victory over Lehigh in their previous match.
Both teams face quick turnarounds with upcoming weekend matches. Boston U. will host Lafayette on October 4th at 1:00 PM, while Army West Point prepares to welcome Colgate for a 6:00 PM kickoff on the same day. The result reshapes the conference standings as both teams continue their pursuit of postseason positioning.