Box Score

Erin Haggerty's first collegiate tally 2:06 before halftime provided the difference as New York University earned its fifth-straight victory with a 1-0 win over Vassar College on Friday afternoon at the College of Staten Island Soccer Complex in Staten Island, NY.

“We're playing well and I'm pleased with the results," said NYU head coach Werner T. Dasbach. "We have a great group of players. Our chemistry if terrific and we are very excited for the rest of the season.”

After making several advances into Vassar's (3-3) final third throughout the opening half, the Violets (5-1) finally netted their first non-opponent-aided goal in the opening half. Lucy Dolly Caires made a run up the right flank, turned along the endline and unleashed a cross to the far post that Haggerty headed home at the goalmouth for the game's only score.

“It's always important to have a strong start to the game and we were able to do that," said Dasbach. "Our group loves to go forward and score goals. We pushed forward and did score on an excellent goal; and we probably could have gotten more.”

Although NYU owned a 17-7 edge on shots and generally owned the better of play, the Brewers made things interesting.

Vassar's finest chance came with 6:51 remaining in regulation when Anna Robinson launched a soaring line drive from 15 yards out. But, Violet goalkeeper Alex Walters made a a leaping one-handed stop to diffuse the Brewers opportunity to net the equalizer.

Both teams used two goalkeepers in the contest. For NYU, Walters improved to 2-0 without needing to make another second-half save after relieving Rachael Ross, who stopped three shots in the first 45 minutes. Meanwhile, Ali Higgins played the first half and made five saves before yielding to Lexi Hutton, who finished with two saves.

While the NYU starters got the team off to a strong start, the Violets received a noticeable boost from reserves like Haggerty and fellow freshman Julie Kaufman. The midfield duo combined for five shots in all and routinely made threatening advances down Vassar's flanks. Being able to count on freshmen to play at a high level early in their careers is something Dasbach expects.

“With us, playing time is earned," the coach said. "We give the players an opportunity to be productive, make a difference and contribute. That's what is expected of all our players, whether they are starting or coming off the bench.”

NYU returns to the pitch Sunday, Sept. 20, for a noon tilt against DeSales University at the CSI Soccer Complex.