MAHWAH — The Kean University women’s soccer team earned its first New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) victory of the season Saturday night, rallying past Ramapo College 2-1 on the road.
Ramapo opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Amanda Barr finished a pass from Marisa Christ. The Cougars answered seven minutes later as junior forward Kaydence Oakley converted a cross from Katelyn Greiner to pull even.
The Cougars took the lead just before halftime when freshman midfielder Stephanie Monroe finished a setup from Carly Gleason in the 44th minute. The goal proved to be the game-winner, as the Cougars’ defense held firm through the second half.
Senior goalkeeper Madison Gesualdo and freshman Caitlin Murphy shared duties in net, each playing one half and combining for seven saves. Gesualdo provided a steady presence in the first half, while Murphy stepped in after the break to secure the win as Kean held off Ramapo’s late pressure.
Despite being outshot 26-8, the Cougars capitalized on their chances and stayed organized defensively. Oakley led the attack with four shots, three on target, while Greiner and Gleason each recorded an assist.
The win lifted Kean to (5-4-1) overall and (1-2) in NJAC play, while Ramapo dropped to (4-4-2) overall and (1-2) in NJAC play.
Kean will look to build on the result Wednesday with a nonconference road match at Brooklyn College, while Ramapo aims to bounce back when it hosts The City College of New York on Monday.
