AMHERST, MASSACHUSETTS - Massachusetts (5-5-2) secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Buffalo (9-3-1) on Thursday afternoon in a crucial conference matchup. Caroline Dickson netted both goals for the Minutewomen in front of 1,247 fans at Rudd Field.
Dickson opened the scoring in the 43rd minute, converting a well-placed assist from Peyton Costello. The striker doubled Massachusetts' advantage just moments later in the 44th minute, again combining with Costello to give the hosts a commanding 2-0 lead heading into halftime.
The first half saw Buffalo create several early opportunities, with Jasmine Guerber testing the Massachusetts defense with shots in the 9th and 13th minutes. Ashley Reyes also came close for the Bulls in the 6th minute, but her attempt sailed high. The Minutewomen gradually gained control of the match, with Sophia Foley's presence in midfield helping to dictate the tempo before Dickson's late double strike transformed the complexion of the game.
Buffalo pressed hard to get back into the match after the break, with Liv Johnsen forcing a save in the 67th minute and Carolyn Hinkle coming close with an effort in the 85th minute. Massachusetts defended resolutely, with tactical substitutions proving crucial as head coach introduced fresh legs through Morgan Bellamy and Skye Cuscuna in the 74th minute to help preserve the clean sheet.
The final statistics reflected the competitive nature of the match, with Buffalo recording 12 shot attempts to Massachusetts' 11. The Bulls held a 7-1 advantage in corner kicks, but couldn't convert their set-piece opportunities. Both goalkeepers were kept busy, with Massachusetts making 5 saves and Buffalo recording 4 stops.
Caroline Dickson's clinical finishing proved the difference, while Kayla Nohasiarisoa controlled the midfield for Massachusetts before being substituted in the 56th minute. For Buffalo, Jasmine Guerber remained dangerous throughout her time on the pitch, recording multiple shot attempts before being withdrawn late in the match.
Massachusetts' tactical approach focused on absorbing Buffalo's pressure before striking quickly through Dickson. The strategy paid dividends as the Bulls, despite controlling possession for long stretches, couldn't find the final touch in front of goal. Key defensive interventions from Amelia Bloom and Bianca Cardano helped maintain the clean sheet.
The victory extends Massachusetts' winning streak to two matches, building momentum after their recent road win at Central Michigan. For Buffalo, the loss snaps a two-game winning run and marks just their third defeat of the season, though they remain in strong position with their 9-3-1 record.
Massachusetts showed impressive defensive organization throughout, limiting Buffalo's clear chances despite the visitors' shot advantage. The Minutewomen's ability to convert their opportunities while maintaining defensive discipline proved the decisive factor in securing all three points.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, October 12, with Massachusetts hosting Eastern Michigan while Buffalo welcomes Central Michigan. The Minutewomen will look to extend their winning streak to three matches, while the Bulls aim to bounce back from just their third loss of the campaign.