WSOC Honors Seniors

HOAG FIELD- The Bethany Bison hosted the Allegheny Gators in a Presidents Athletic Conference matchup. It was senior day for four Bison. Goalkeeper Alessandra Ferrazzano, Forward Jada Benjamin, Forward Carlene Thomas, and Defender Ava Lee were all honored before kickoff for their commitment to the women's soccer program during their careers.

The Bison gave up a goal early in the first half (11th minute), but Benjamin capped off her senior day with Bethany's only goal in the second half. Jordan Palmer dished a pass to Benjamin deep in their offensive zone. Benjamin Dribbled about seven feet from the right corner of the goalpost, actively fighting off a defending Gator who was contesting for the ball. After winning that battle, the senior sniped an off balance shot across the goal line into the opposite corner to tie the game at one. Palmer earned an assist.

Mathelyn Ruiz did everything she could in goal to keep the Bison in the game. Ruiz finished the game with 10 saves, including a diving one-handed effort on a wide open shot to keep the game tied. 

However, the Gators were able to strike again in the 81st minute to take the lead. The Bison offense was able to create two open looks. Benjamin took a shot from around 35 yards out. A perfect curve towards the top left corner of the goal presented a challenging save. However, Allegheny's goalie was able to leap and get a hand on the ball, sending it high over the top of the post. Monica Bird took a quality shot off the following rebound, but sailed the ball over the net.

The Gators played ball control for the rest of the game, converting their 2-1 lead into a victory. This was their first game that the Bison lost at home. Prior to this game, Bethany was 3-0-2 on Hoag Field.

The Bison (6-5-3) will stay at home for the week, hosting Washington and Jefferson (4-8-2) on Tuesday. Bethany will serve as the second game of the day, following the men's senior day. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.