READING, PA— The Crusaders of Alvernia University handed the Griffins their second loss of the season in another 4-3 decision Saturday afternoon.  Now 0-2, the reigning CSAC Champions will open the home portion of their schedule on Saturday September 12^th.

Leading 1-0 in the first half, Maggie Walsh (Warrington, Pa./Central Bucks South) gave the Griffins a narrow lead at 11:33 after placing a pass from Katie O'Neill (Newtown, Pa./Council Rock North) in the back of the net.  The Griffins had a clear offensive advantage at the break, out shooting the Crusaders 9-0 and leading in penalty corners 6-3.

Although team chemistry was high, the Crusaders would battle back with three quick goals in the second by Melanie Lowry and two from Margaret Wentzel putting Alvernia up 3-1.

Gwynedd was quick to answer when Katie O'Neill (Newtown, Pa./Council Rock North) passed around a defender to find Melissa Russo (Saylorsburg, Pa./Pleasant Valley) for a goal.  Moments later Sarah Yerk (Perkasie, Pa./Pennridge) would tie the game at 3-3 after firing a hard shot that deflected off a Crusader defender.

Despite the slight 6-5 advantage in corners in the second, the Crusaders outshot the Griffins 17-11 in the half.  With under 5 minutes in regulation, Summer Liberto would secure the win for Alvernia after placing a penalty shot around Griffin goal keeper Samantha Soscia (Lambertville, N.J./South Hunterdon).

Gwynedd's Samantha Soscia (Lambertville, N.J./South Hunterdon) and Alvernia's Rebecca Brosious closed out the day with 11 saves each.

The Griffins take on Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham at home next Saturday as they continue non-league competition; game is set to begin at 4 p.m.