Bridgeport, Conn. - Lindsey Thompson's goal in
the 73rd minute proved to be the game winner as the Golden Lions
earned their second straight ECC Championship title with a 1-0 win
over the University of Bridgeport Purple Knights. Dowling
(13-3-2) earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II East
Regional Tournament.
The Golden Lions were out shot 11-9 by the Purple Knights, but
goalkeeper and tournament Most Outstanding Player Melissa Guglielmo
came up with eight saves. For UB keeper Julia Hansson tallied
five saves.
Both teams played a faily even first half with DC holding a slight
4-2 shot advantage. Each side had just one shot on goal
through the first 45 minutes.
The Purple Knights looked as though they were going to break the
scoreless tie when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 67th
minute. UB's Danielle Puddefoot took the shot, but Guglielmo
came up huge with the save and quickly covered up the rebound.
Just five minutes later, Dowling forward Thompson sends a shot off
the left post and in the net to give the Golden Lions a 1-0
lead.
The Purple Knights contiued to put pressure on the Dowling defense
and Guglielmo with three shots in the final ten minutes of play,
but the Golden Lions held strong for their tenth shutout of the
season.
Provided by the Dowling Sports Information Department.
