Rutgers Women's Soccer Improve To 7-0

September 9, 2022

Rutgers Women's Soccer beat La Salle 3-1 on Thursday to move their record to 7-0 on the season, which is the best start to a season in program history. Forward Allison Lowrey and Kylie Daigle talked about the team's record-breaking start to the season.

"I mean that's great," Lowrey said. "It's our first record that we set and looking to set more this season."

"I actually wasn't aware that we were 7-0 for the first time in program history," Daigle said. "I think last year we had a really good run, but two upsets against Princeton and Georgetown. We went into it thinking it wouldn't be a harder game, so this year we know going on every game it's not our last."

La Salle got off to a strong start in beginning of the game as they got a penalty kick goal from Alyssa Gargiulo at the 7:43 mark. The Explorers put the pressure on Rutgers right away as they took early shots and were aggressive on the offensive side. Gargiulo's goal would be the only one for them in the game as they fall to 5-2 on the season. Goalkeeper Megan McClelland talked about the importance of the win.

"Just think La Salle is a great team," McClelland said. "Coming into it, we know the opponent keeps getting tougher, but also knew that this was a chance to make history for the first time. So, we took it like every other game. Then, we were like let's go do this. They are a great opponent and show them what we got."

The momentum shifted at the 16:08 mark when Lowrey tied up the score at 1-1 for Rutgers. She slotted the goal in the bottom right corner and was assisted by Becci Fluchel. The equalizer changed everything for Rutgers as they were able to get better shots against La Salle's defense. Two minutes after the equalizer, Allison Lynch scored to put Rutgers up 2-1. Two minutes into the second half, midfielder Kylie Daigle extended the lead to 3-1 and was assisted by Sara Brocious and Riley Tiernan.

Rutgers defense got a lot better after the beginning of first half as they changed the game plan on La Salle. This was the first real test for them as a team, but La Salle played them close throughout the game. For them to make history tonight at home is extra special to them and the coaching staff. All the players love playing for head coach Mike O'Neill, who is entering his ninth season as head coach.

What's Next for Rutgers

Rutgers will look to improve its record to 8-0 on Sunday, September 11 against the LSU Tigers at home. The game kicks off at noon and is available on Big Ten+.