MIDDLETOWN, Pa. – St. Mary’s College of Maryland came up short in the 2024 United East Women’s Soccer Championship on Saturday, falling to Penn State Harrisburg in a tense final that ended in a 0-0 draw after double overtime and was decided by penalty kicks. The Seahawks, despite a resilient defensive effort, lost 4-3 in the shootout on the campus of Penn State Harrisburg.
With the win, Penn State Harrisburg earned the automatic bid to the upcoming NCAA Championship. The Lions will find out their first-round opponent and match location during the NCAA Selection Show, streaming on Monday, November 11 at 2 p.m. on NCAA.com.
Defensive Battle Ends in Stalemate
The championship clash echoed the teams’ previous matchup three weeks prior, which also ended in a 0-0 draw. Both sides demonstrated their defensive capabilities throughout 120 minutes of regulation and two overtime periods, limiting scoring opportunities.
While Penn State Harrisburg managed a slight edge with seven shots to St. Mary’s six and dominated corner kicks 8-0, neither side could find the back of the net. The Seahawks’ steadfast defense kept the game tightly contested until the final moments.
Heartbreak in the Penalty Shootout
The pressure intensified as the game moved to penalty kicks. Penn State Harrisburg’s coach made a decisive substitution by bringing in goalkeeper Alexis Valenta for the shootout. This tactical move proved pivotal.
Harrisburg’s Diana Pon scored in the first round, while St. Mary’s Megan Stambaugh’s attempt hit the post, giving Harrisburg an early advantage. Both teams converted their penalties in the second and third rounds, with Valenta notably scoring for Harrisburg in round three to make it 3-2.
St. Mary’s goalkeeper Kyleigh Bland kept her team in the match with a crucial save in the fourth round, followed by Morgan Kresslein’s goal to level the score at 3-3. In the decisive fifth round, Brin Moore’s successful shot put Harrisburg ahead, setting up Valenta to secure the win. Valenta’s diving save to her left deflected the Seahawks’ final shot around the post, sealing the Lions’ victory and earning her the title of Tournament MVP.
“It was a tough way to lose,” said a St. Mary’s supporter. “The team fought hard, but penalties can go either way.”
Notable Performances
St. Mary’s goalkeeper Bland made three saves during regulation, while Sydney Mulka recorded one save for Penn State Harrisburg. The defensive showcase highlighted the depth of talent on both sides, contributing to the match’s scoreless result.
Statistics Snapshot
- Shots: Penn State Harrisburg 7, St. Mary’s 6
- Saves: St. Mary’s 3 (Bland), Penn State Harrisburg 1 (Mulka)
- Corner Kicks: Penn State Harrisburg 8, St. Mary’s 0
- Offsides: Penn State Harrisburg 2, St. Mary’s 1
Game Cautions
- At 77:35, Megan Rusk of St. Mary’s received a caution.
- At 104:05, a team caution was issued to Penn State Harrisburg.
Reflection and Future Outlook
Despite the loss, St. Mary’s College of Maryland showcased impressive defensive strength and resilience. The Seahawks will look to build on this performance in future seasons.
For full match details, visit the United East conference website.
