The Seahawks wasted no time asserting their dominance in the match, as junior defender Jena Vanskiver (Fallston, Md./Fallston) scored a penalty stroke just 40 seconds into the game, giving St. Mary’s a quick 1-0 lead. Vanskiver’s goal marked her third of the season, setting the tone for what would be another strong showing for the Seahawks.
St. Mary’s doubled their lead before halftime when sophomore midfielder Alyssa Riggleman (Sudlersville, Md./Queen Anne’s County) found the back of the net at the 25:15 mark. Riggleman capitalized on a well-placed feed from junior forward Brenna Ziegler (Newark, Del./Newark Charter), scoring her first goal of the season and sending the Seahawks into the break with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Giants Hold Strong in Third Quarter
Keystone’s defense regrouped in the third quarter, preventing the Seahawks from extending their lead. Despite an onslaught of pressure from the St. Mary’s offense, which took multiple shots on goal, the Giants kept the scoreboard stagnant.
However, Keystone struggled to generate offensive opportunities of their own, as the Seahawks’ defense remained resilient throughout. When the Giants did manage to test first-year goalkeeper Sophia Kent (Chesterville, Md./Gunston), she was up to the challenge, keeping the visitors off the board.
Keystone’s Late Push Falls Short
The fourth quarter saw Keystone increase their offensive urgency, but Kent and the Seahawks’ defense continued to stand firm. Kent, who recorded her third shutout of the season, turned away all four of Keystone’s shots on goal in the final period.
Junior forward Emma Watkins (Frederick, Md./Linganore) provided the finishing touch for St. Mary’s, scoring with just two minutes left in the game. Watkins, who leads the team with nine goals this season, sealed the 3-0 win with her late tally.
Inside the Box Score
St. Mary’s dominated statistically, outshooting Keystone 29-11, including a 16-4 edge in shots on goal. The Seahawks also earned a 14-5 advantage in penalty corners, further underscoring their control over the game.
For St. Mary’s, Watkins continues to be a key offensive player, while Riggleman added her first goal of the season. Kent’s shutout performance, along with defensive saves by Vanskiver and sophomore defender Safi Stimely (Linthicum, Md./Broadneck), highlighted the Seahawks’ defensive prowess.
On Keystone’s side, goalkeeper Hannah Osbahr had a busy afternoon, making 13 saves to keep the scoreline from escalating further. Keystone’s leading scorer was Jordan Vandermark, who tallied six shots, including two on target.
What’s Next
The Seahawks will face a significant challenge in their next match, as they host No. 5 Christopher Newport University (10-1) on October 24 at JLR Stadium in St. Mary’s City. Christopher Newport, one of the top teams in Division III, will be looking to extend their own strong run of form. After that, St. Mary’s will travel to Allentown, Pennsylvania, to take on Cedar Crest College (4-12, 1-3 UEC) on October 26.
