STEUBENVILLE, Ohio – Saint Francis women's soccer closed out its season with a 4-2 victory over Franciscan University on Wednesday evening.
The Red Wolves got off to a quick start, scoring twice in less than a minute. Meredith Artz opened the scoring in the 20th minute off an assist from Jacklyn Hajnosz. Just about 50 seconds later, Artz assisted Riley Cerqua to give Saint Francis a 2-0 lead. Franciscan cut into the lead, and going into halftime it was all tied up.Â
Cerqua found the back of the net again in the 57th minute with a free kick from about 50 yards out. Franciscan added another goal before Caterina Schiavo capped off the scoring in the final minute off an assist from Artz to secure the 4-2 win.
Artz finished with a goal and two assists, and Schiavo added a goal of her own. Riley recorded her first career two-goal match.
Artz led Saint Francis with four shots on goal, followed by Cerqua with three, Molly Baker and Schiavo with two, and Mercedez Paino, Reagan Truxillo, Katie Drouillard, Molly Baker, and Morgan Schlegel each adding one.
Alyssa Walker finished with three saves in goal.
"Tonight was a special evening. It marked the end of a career for four great plaers who all contributed massively to this program. We had four goals scored by three players in their final game. It was truly a special night," said head coach Brian Diaz. "As a team, to finish the season on a 6-game wining streak was outstanding. This group has pkayed very consistent soccer throughout the course of the season. We have continued to grow with each game. This team has set such a high standard for the program moving forward. Our coaching staff could not be more proud of what this team did this season. This team is filled with young ladies who have committed to making this program a real competitor in the PAC."
The game marked the conclusion of the season and the careers of five Red Wolves: Mercedez Paino, Riley Cerqua, Caterina Schiavo, and Delaney Urban. Thank you to Mercedez, Riley, Caterina, and Delaney for their incredible careers and everything they have contributed to the Saint Francis women's soccer program. Congratulations on all you have accomplished, and best of luck in your future endeavors!
