On Saturday, the University of Rhode Island women’s soccer team opened Atlantic 10 Conference play against Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, falling 2-1 after a late penalty kick.
The Rams’ third-year midfielder Kyra Samalonis struck first, rebounding her own shot into the net at the 20th minute. The goal was Samalonis’ first of the season, giving the Rams momentum as they moved into the second half.
“I was just super excited, especially since I gave us the lead,” Samalonis said. “It came at a really good time. It was unlucky we didn’t get a good result in the end, but it was still a really good feeling to finally score.”
Duquesne’s midfielder, fourth-year Anna Bundy, tied the game just 15 minutes later after receiving a cross from fellow fourth-year midfielder Kayla Leseck. The ball was crossed in front of the Rams’ box, resulting in a goal. Similar to Samalonis’ goal, Bundy’s goal was also scored off a rebound.
Although URI outshot Duquesne 21-17, the Rams fell short after a second-half penalty kick. The penalty kick occurred in the 60th minute after Ram’s defender, fourth-year Lily Camacho, became entangled with Duquesne’s fourth-year midfielder Paige Kuisis, taking her down inside the penalty box.
Fourth-year midfielder Jayden Sharpless took the penalty kick, scoring in the upper-right corner to put Duquesne ahead 2-1.
Despite this loss, the Rams still have nine regular season games remaining. Building off last season’s championship run, the Rams look to bounce back in their next conference matchup.
Last season, Rhode Island had an incredible postseason run, finishing with a 13-5-3 record and a conference record of 5-3-4 in the Atlantic 10. After having a strong regular season, the Rams used that momentum into the conference tournament.
“It’s an experience that all these current players haven’t had before,” head coach Megan Jessee said. “I think when you have success like that, it gives you belief that you can obviously get to those levels. I think that’s ultimately translated to this year in terms of our ability.”
With conference play underway, the Rams will have the opportunity to make the necessary adjustments after Saturday’s loss. They have the foundation to build off of after last year’s run and the chance to create their own path as they continue through their remaining schedule.
“Our goal is to win an A10 Championship, and I definitely think we have the team to do it this year,” Jessee said. “Obviously, we’ve got to take it game by game, and we’ve got some work to do, but we’re fully capable of that, and that’s what we’re working for right now.”
The Rhode Island Rams women’s soccer team will host George Washington University on Thursday at the URI Soccer Complex. The match begins at 7 p.m. and will stream on ESPN+.
