The State University of New York at New Paltz women's soccer team is looking for its first win of the season, and is aiming to clinch just that Saturday when it takes on Manhattanville College at 2 p.m. for its second home game of the week.

"We're hoping and expecting to win," said Hawks sophomore Jessica Levinson. "I think it's been a long time coming, and we're just excited to get back out there and show everyone what we're made of at home."

The Hawks (0-5) lost a narrow match to Bard College Wednesday, 1-0. SUNY New Paltz kept the score close by exhibiting strong defense and using clever footwork.

In an almost cinematic moment, Angyal made a desperate shot on Bard's goal with only five seconds left of the game, passing the ball toward the middle from the right wing. As the rain poured, the ball deflected off a Hawks player and went into the back of the net — a play that should have tied the game had the referee not called offsides and the goal defunct. 

Although disappointed, SUNY New Paltz plans to use the loss as fuel against the Vailants. In the 2017 season, the Hawks defeated Manhattaville, 3-0. Going into the matchup Saturday, the Vailants are 1-3 with losses coming against Saint Joseph, Drew College, and Kean College with their lone win coming over Purchase College.

Following their game against Manhattanville, SUNY New Paltz will take on Fairleigh Dickinson University, Florhem, which goes into the weekend with an overall record of, 4-0-1.  

"We've been trying to stay off our feet as much as possible," said Hawks freshman Danielle Angyal. "When we're not practicing, getting ice bath, getting proper treatment so that we are healthy and ready to go for the games."
 

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