MOUNT VERNON – The Cornell women's soccer team fought hard against NAIA Clarke University on Friday, recording a 1-1 tie to start the 2023 season at the Cornell Soccer Field.

After a scoreless first half, the Rams struck gold a little after the 48-minute mark with an unassisted goal by junior Kylie Hard. She weaved through traffic and threaded the needle inside the penalty area to put the Rams up. 

The Rams held back a Pride rally for most of the second half, turning down five shots. It wasn't until a goal with less than two minutes left by Sophie Spicuzza that spelled the end of the Rams' shutout win.

Hard and senior Amelia Brown each finished the game with two shots each; junior Emma Rowe, senior Kara Rivard, and sophomore Krystin Kamrath each finished with one shot attempt in the game.

Sophomore Sabrina Ibanez played all 90 minutes as the goalkeeper for the Rams. She faced 11 shots, with six on goal, and secured six saves. The Rams as a team finished with nine shots with four being on goal. 

Coming up – The Rams host Mount Mercy tomorrow for a 10 a.m. start time at the Cornell Soccer Field.