LEWISTON, N.Y. - Niagara (5-4-1) secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Manhattan (3-4-4) in a back-and-forth conference matchup on Wednesday afternoon at Niagara Field, with 847 spectators in attendance.
The first half saw both teams trading offensive opportunities early. Manhattan's Olivia McMaster tested the Niagara defense in the 4th minute with a low shot to the right, followed by consecutive attempts from Kaylee Stowell and Amaya Hill in the 5th and 6th minutes respectively. Niagara's Baillie Colling responded with a dangerous shot in the 10th minute that sailed high.
The opening period continued to showcase attacking soccer from both sides. Niagara's Caitlyn Gratton had a blocked shot in the 14th minute, while Sarah Lucas and Angelina Kristic both created chances for the Purple Eagles around the 17th minute mark. Manhattan's Amaya Hill nearly equalized in the 18th minute, but her effort went wide right.
The second half began with both teams making tactical adjustments. Manhattan introduced fresh legs at halftime, with Samantha Setteducato, Amaya Hill, and Josslyn Weissman all making way for substitutes. Niagara's Morgan Kulniszewski tested Manhattan's defense with a low shot in the 53rd minute, while Manhattan's Marlene Berlinghoff responded with a high attempt in the 48th minute.
The statistical battle highlighted the evening's competitive nature. Manhattan recorded 12 shot attempts with 8 on target, matching Niagara's 12 attempts though the Purple Eagles managed 5 on frame. The Jaspers held a significant 5-1 advantage in corner kicks, but Niagara's defense stood firm when needed. The match saw two yellow cards issued to Niagara, with Chloe Briggs cautioned in the 35th minute and Caitlyn Grady in the 61st minute.
Individual performances shaped the outcome, with several players standing out. Manhattan's Olivia McMaster created multiple dangerous opportunities, including a blocked shot in the 77th minute. Niagara's Baillie Colling proved particularly threatening, recording multiple attempts including a woodwork strike in the 20th minute. Both goalkeepers were tested throughout, with Niagara's keeper making 6 crucial saves while Manhattan's recorded 2 stops.
Tactically, both teams demonstrated their offensive capabilities while maintaining defensive discipline. Niagara's approach focused on quick counterattacks, utilizing the speed of Baillie Colling and Morgan Kulniszewski. Manhattan's strategy emphasized wide play and set pieces, evidenced by their superior corner kick count.
The result moves Niagara to a positive 5-4-1 record, extending their winning streak to two matches following their recent victory over Mount St. Mary's. Manhattan's record falls to 3-4-4, ending their two-game winning streak that included victories over Iona and Mount St. Mary's.
Looking ahead, both teams return to action on October 4th, with Niagara traveling to face Iona in an afternoon matchup, while Manhattan hosts Siena at noon. The Purple Eagles will look to build on this momentum, while the Jaspers aim to bounce back from this narrow defeat.