true Morristown, N.J., - (10/4/2025) - The Gwynedd Mercy University Griffins (4-6) opened conference play this evening with an away game against the Saint Elizabeth Eagles (2-3-3). The Eagles were the first to shoot, a low shot to the right of the goal, which graduate student Andrew Roberto (Churchville, Pa.) saved [15:14]. The contest was evenly matched with multiple changes of possession, though the first goal of the game went to Saint Elizabeth [33:36]. The Red and Gold were determined to repay the Eagles with a goal of their own. The Griffins' forwards and midfielders increased the pressure on the Saint Elizabeth's defenders, resulting in an own-goal [41:25] and tying the game 1-1.
The second half was as much of a battle as the first. Gunnar Christensen (Finksburg, Md.) took advantage of great positioning and shot just over one minute into the half [46:01] but was unable to convert the goal as he hit the crossbar. Saint Elizabeth's squad was able to acquire three corner kicks in quick succession [56:51, 57:36, 58:00] but could not get the ball in the goal. The Griffins were trying to utilize their speed to their advantage, though they were penalized for offside infractions seven times throughout the second half. Gwynedd Mercy received a corner kick [89:17] but were not able to convert to a goal. Instead, Saint Elizabeth's midfield acquired possession and made the game-winning goal with just 32 seconds left in the game. Though they lost, the Griffins had grit and opportunities, which will only help them as they continue to move through conference play.
Griffin Highlights:
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The junior class was key for the Griffins, as Devario Gboho (Philadelphia, Pa.) and Luke O'Donnell (Glenside, Pa.) combined for five shots through the match, four of which were placed on-goal.
The Griffins return home for their next Atlantic East Conference against Pratt Institution. The game is slotted for a 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8.
