WPI and Babson College Battle to a 1-1 Draw
Babson Park, MA – In an exciting NEWMAC matchup, WPI showcased resilience by rallying from an early setback to secure a 1-1 draw against Babson on Saturday afternoon at Hartwell-Rogers Field. The Engineers equalized with a second-half own goal, demonstrating their tenacity as they sought a late winner but were ultimately held by the Beavers.
Match Summary
First Half Highlights
Babson struck first, taking the lead just 5 minutes and 23 seconds into the match. Izzy Lee (Phoenix, AZ) found the back of the net after receiving a pass from Sarah Hogan (South Glastonbury, CT), marking her fourth goal of the season. Despite the early goal, WPI settled into the game, creating multiple opportunities. In the 32nd minute, Jillian Ferguson (Amherst, NH) sent a shot over the net, and shortly after, Jess English (Ledyard, CT) had her effort saved by Babson’s goalkeeper, Callahan Cottone (Medway, MA).
WPI continued to pressure, with Delaney Mohl (Hopewell Junction, NY) missing a headed chance and Madisen McLeod (Ledyard, CT) having a shot blocked as the half drew to a close.
Second Half Action
The Engineers emerged with renewed energy in the second half, with both Abigail Johnson (Middletown, CT) and Aliza Margolis (Wakefield, MA) forcing saves within seconds of each other during the 55th minute. Despite persistent efforts, it took until the 67th minute for WPI to find their equalizer. A long free kick from Johnson inadvertently bounced off a Babson defender, resulting in an own goal that leveled the score.
Within a minute, McLeod narrowly missed giving WPI the lead by striking the crossbar. As the closing stages of the match approached, both teams continued to threaten, with WPI’s English and Mohl forcing critical saves from Babson’s Creamer.
Final Moments
In a tense finish, WPI had two more opportunities in the dying seconds. However, Sarah Frye (Nashua, NH) missed a late shot in the 90th minute, and Tiziri Tizi-Ougdal (Acton, MA) could not connect with a header as time expired.
Match Statistics
- Shots: WPI 12, Babson 15
- Shots on Goal: WPI 6, Babson 4
- Corner Kicks: WPI 3, Babson 4
Looking Ahead
WPI’s next challenge will come against Salve Regina next Saturday, October 10, with kickoff scheduled for noon. Babson will prepare for a NEWMAC clash against Clark on Wednesday evening at 7 PM, taking place at Granger Field in Worcester.
