HAMILTON - Women's soccer fell in the Patriot League Semifinal on Thursday night. Army defeated Colgate by a score of 2-1 at Beyer-Small '76 Field.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The first half began with both teams testing their defenses, and the Colgate soccer team quickly applied pressure, creating multiple scoring opportunities. Ari Bezanson's early shot was saved by the Black Knights' Karalyn Dail, and Nikki DiCaprio followed with an attempt that went wide. Colgate's persistence continued with Ellie Stokes and Josie Tunney each forcing saves from Dail, but the home team could not find the back of the net.
Despite Colgate's offensive efforts, Army eventually broke through late in the half. Sophia Henry scored with an assist from Bella Conti in the 44th minute, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. The half concluded with Colgate trailing by a single goal.
The second half began with Colgate looking to shift momentum in their favor. Bezanson created several opportunities early on, including a shot saved by the Black Knights' Dail at the 46th minute. Colgate's offensive pressure continued with Lydia Thornton and Tunney both forcing saves from Dail later in the period.
The Black Knights capitalized on their chances and extended their lead with a goal by Brigid Duffy in the 87th minute. However, Colgate responded quickly, with Bezanson finding the net in the 89th minute to cut the deficit. Despite the late surge, the match concluded with Colgate trailing 2-1.
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
- Ari Bezanson set a new program record as she appeared in her 74th career game. Bezanson marked her record setting appearance with her 30th career goal which ranks tied-ninth in Raiders all-time scoring history.
- Colgate's six All-Patriot League selections is the most since 2018. The Raiders also hosted their first Patriot League Semifinal since 2011.
- Four first-years recorded at least one goal in their first season with the Raiders. Lydia Thornton led the way with three goals and one assist.
- In the heart of the Patriot League season, Colgate rattled off six wins out of seven which propelled them to a 6-2-1 conference record, its best since 2018.
- In the 2-2 draw against George Washington on Aug. 28, 2025,, all goals were scored in the final four minutes of the match.
- Josie Tunney finished the season as the Raiders second leading goalscorer and will return for her junior season in 2026.
- Ella Poppinga started all 19 games this season and finished with 87 saves and a GAA of 1.26. Poppinga will join five other Raiders from the final starting lineup as returners for 2026.
