Ramapo College women’s soccer team suffered a 2-0 conference loss against William Paterson University. The defeat drops the Roadrunners to a 2-6-1 overall record and 0-2 in NJAC, while the Pioneers improve to 5-3-3 overall and 1-0-1 in conference play. Throughout the match, Ramapo showed strong defensive efforts, but struggled in creating consistent offensive opportunities.
William Paterson took the lead in the first half when Abby Lonergan found the back of the net in the 36th minute, scoring her first goal of the season. Christina Jimenez earned the assist, putting the Pioneers up 1-0. Ramapo spent the rest of the first half trying to even the score, but could not capitalize on the offensive opportunities despite earning several corner kicks.
In the second half, William Paterson continued to control the field, maintaining possession and limiting Ramapo’s chances to get back into the game. While the Roadrunners were struggling on the offensive end, they held their ground defensively. Sophomore goalkeeper Gabby Matias made several key stops, including three saves as Ramapo headed into halftime, down just one goal.
In the 78th minute, William Patterson’s Janie Henderson scored her second goal of the season, extending the lead to 2-0. Ramapo struggled to create offensive momentum as they only registered one shot on goal throughout the match. Despite their efforts, the Roadrunners were unable to break through William Paterson’s defense and remained scoreless. Even though Ramapo held a 4-0 advantage in corner kicks, William Patterson outshot the Roadrunners 5-1 in shots on goal. Pioneers’ goalkeeper Sarah Mantilla recorded one save to secure the shutout victory.
The loss highlighted some of the challenges Ramapo has faced this season, particularly with a young roster still adapting to the competitive level of the NJAC. The team continues to build chemistry and experience, but finding consistency against tough opponents has been difficult. Despite the struggles, the Roadrunners remain focused on learning and improving as the season progresses.
Sophomore Amber Maher reflected on the team’s performance, “As our team is so young, there’s lots of challenges and adjustments that come with that. Playing in such a talented, competitive conference like the NJAC can be a lot of pressure on all of us but I’m so very proud of how the girls are handling those challenges. The result doesn’t always match the hard work that we constantly put in but if we keep pushing each other to be the best we can, the results will go in our favor.”
Looking ahead, the Roadrunners have a chance to bounce back in their next NJAC matchup against The College of New Jersey. They will host the game on October 12th at 1p.m. on the Athletic Center Turf.
Despite their struggles, the Roadrunners remain determined and focused, working hard to improve their record. With a challenging season so far, Ramapo will look to sharpen their offensive game and put together a more complete performance as they search for their first conference win.
lkelyman@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @tessapofahlphotos, Instagram
