WSOC: Lasers Advance to GNAC Semifinals After Defeating Saint Joseph's Maine 1-0

Newton, MA- In a thrilling GNAC quarterfinal matchup, Lasell University secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Saint Joseph's (Maine) to advance to the conference semifinals. The Lasers dominated possession and outshot the Monks throughout the contest, finally breaking through late in the second half.

Lasell came out strong in the opening period, creating multiple scoring chances. Mia Pineault, Brooke Bell, and Camdyn LaMarre all put pressure on the Saint Joseph's defense, while Bell nearly opened the scoring in the 18th minute when her shot rattled off the crossbar. Despite several well-placed corner kicks by Bell and Kendall Sniper, Saint Joseph's goalkeeper stood tall, making several key saves to keep the match level at halftime.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Lasell continuing to apply pressure. Elizabeth DaSilva anchored the defense with clutch saves of her own, denying the Monks on a few dangerous counterattacks. As time wound down, the Lasers' persistence finally paid off in the 84th minute when Ayla Hathaway buried a low strike into the back of the net off a setup from Destani Alua-Rioux. Lasell's defense held firm in the closing minutes to preserve the shutout and the team's place in the GNAC semifinals.

Up Next: With the win, Lasell continues its postseason run, looking to carry its momentum into the semifinals next week against Rivier. They will play at Rivier on Wednesday November 5.