Pride offense erupts as women’s soccer routs Elon

All they do is win. The Hofstra women’s soccer team defeated Elon University 5-0, extending their winning streak to six in a row. 

The game started off with a bang. In the sixth minute of play, Miri Taylor found Sabrina Bryan for an early tally. Just thirty seconds later, Elon panicked, taking a penalty that led to a Lucy Porter penalty-kick goal. Just like that, it was 2-0 for the Pride. 

There were quite a few fouls throughout the first half, but it did not distract the Pride from keeping up the pressure. Taylor connected on a header in the 12th minute and freshman Brianna Passaro scored her first career goal with less than two minutes remaining in the first half. Despite scoring only one goal in the second, Hofstra maintained the lead with its unstoppable defense. Elon was unable to muster any goals throughout the course of the game. 

 “There was a lot of good energy I [could] feel before the game,” said head coach Simon Riddiough. “When you create those chances in the first ten to fifteen minutes and put them away, it makes it a tough game for the opposition. I thought that’s what it came down to today.” 

With the win, Hofstra moves into first place in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) standings and improves to 8-3 on the season. 

However, a dog fight is ahead. Hofstra is on the road for three of their next four games, including bouts against Northeastern University, the College of Charleston and UNC-Wilmington. Hofstra has a 5-0 record at home this season, and will look to improve upon their 3-3 road record in the coming weeks.

“This week will show us where we really stand as a team,” Riddiough said.

Hofstra is now 6-0 all-time against Elon in regular season. This is Hofstra’s third shutout of the season and the team has outscored CAA opponents 7-1 in two games played so far.

The Pride’s next matchup is against Northeastern on Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. 

Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics