Fredonia, NY -- The State University of New York at New Paltz women's soccer team fell to Fredonia State in its first conference game of the season Friday. The team put up a strong fight, but struggled to keep the ball out of its box, leading to a 3-1 loss.

"We did not come to compete today which is on me," said Hawks coach Mike Eckberg. 

The first half was tight; the ball spent equal time on both sides of the field, giving SUNY New Paltz the opportunity to display both strong defense and offense. The Blue Devils scored in the 10th minute, but was shortly followed by a Hawks score. Senior forward Rachael Purtell was credited with the goal, with junior forward Annaliese Gorr on the assist to tie the match in the 29th minute.

SUNY New Paltz was outshot 13-7, but made five shots on Fredonia State's goal, three of which were made in the second half. Sophomore goalkeeper Megan Tornatore saved five of the eight shots she faced.

The Hawks spent the beginning of the second half exhibiting solid defense, with freshman Ciara Devlin, freshman Erika McCue and sophomore Kristin Lasker blocking the Blue Devils' attempts to get close enough to shoot. Despite SUNY New Paltz's effort, the Fredonia State scored two more goals in the 71st and 76th minute, respectively. The Hawks responded with a more aggressive offense, but was unable to penetrate the Blue Devils' defense in the last quarter of the game.

"We have to regroup and be ready to execute tomorrow," said Eckberg.

SUNY New Paltz is looking to rebound Saturday, as it takes on host Buffalo State at 1 p.m. To stay up to date with everything #NPHawks be sure to follow on Twitter at @nphawks, Instagram and Facebook at @newpaltzhawks, and subscribe to our Youtube channel, New Paltz Hawks.