St. Mary’s City, Md., buzzed with excitement on Friday evening as the St. Mary’s College of Maryland women’s soccer team launched their 2025 season with a commanding 3-1 win over Neumann University at Jamie L. Roberts Stadium. The match, the opening game of the annual Seahawk Classic, showcased the Seahawks’ offensive firepower and defensive resilience, setting a strong tone for the season ahead.
The Seahawks (1-0) wasted no time asserting dominance, striking twice within the first 12 minutes. In the 11th minute, Gracie Tourangeau opened the scoring, capitalizing on a precise pass from Keira O’Neail to slot the ball past Neumann’s goalkeeper. Just 63 seconds later, Allie Petryszak doubled the lead, finishing a play set up by Ashlyn Bonner’s assist. The rapid-fire goals electrified the home crowd, giving St. Mary’s an early 2-0 advantage.
Neumann (0-1) responded before halftime, with Marisa Nicolucci pulling one back in the 39th minute to make it 2-1. Despite the setback, the Seahawks’ defense, anchored by goalkeeper Kyleigh Bland, held firm. Bland’s four saves, including critical stops in the second half, ensured Neumann couldn’t equalize. Her performance in goal was a cornerstone of the victory, showcasing the team’s defensive depth.
In the 79th minute, Brooke Hall sealed the win with an insurance goal, again assisted by Bonner, who earned her second assist of the night. Hall’s strike, her first of the season, highlighted the Seahawks’ ability to maintain pressure late in the game. The team’s offensive output was balanced, with Tourangeau, Petryszak, and Hall each netting their first goals of the season, while Bonner’s playmaking stood out as a key factor.
St. Mary’s controlled the game statistically, outshooting Neumann 12-6, with 8 shots on goal compared to the Knights’ 5. The Seahawks also held a 7-3 edge in corner kicks, reflecting their attacking intent. Despite committing 10 fouls to Neumann’s 2, St. Mary’s maintained discipline, with only one caution issued to Petryszak in the 77th minute for a late challenge.
The victory marks a strong start for the Seahawks, who are looking to build on last season’s success in the United East Conference. Jamie L. Roberts Stadium, a familiar venue for Southern Maryland sports fans, provided the perfect backdrop for the team’s season opener. The Seahawk Classic, a highlight of the local sports calendar, draws teams from across the region, offering St. Mary’s a chance to test their mettle against strong competition early in the season.
Next up, the Seahawks face a formidable challenge as they take on the 20th-ranked College of New Jersey (TCNJ) on Saturday in the second game of the Seahawk Classic. TCNJ, known for their disciplined play and strong midfield, will test St. Mary’s early-season form. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest for local fans, with the Seahawks aiming to carry their momentum forward.
The win over Neumann sets an optimistic tone for the Seahawks’ 2025 campaign. With a balanced attack, a stout defense, and standout performances from players like Bonner and Bland, St. Mary’s is poised to make waves in the United East Conference. As they prepare for TCNJ, the team’s early chemistry and depth suggest they’re ready to compete at a high level, bringing excitement to soccer fans across Southern Maryland.
