Nov. 14, 2004

Final Stats

PRINCETON, N.J. - Princeton midfielder Maura Gallagher bounced a ball past a Villanova defender and into the net on a corner kick 3:10 into the second overtime perod, and the Tigers advanced to the third round of the NCAA Championship with a 1-0 double overtime victory over Villanova (14-6-2) on Sunday afternoon at Lourie-Love Field. Princeton (17-2-0) avenged a loss to the Wildcats in the first round of last year's tournament, and defeated the Wildcats by a 1-0 score for the second time this season.

The Wildcats wind up their season with a 14-6-2 record after making their fourth straight appearance in the NCAA tournament. The graduating senior class of Michelle Biehl (Southampton, Pa.), Laura Johnson (Ambler, Pa.), Erica Stewart (Cranbury, N.J.), Regina Villari (Woodbury Heights, N.J.) and Patricia Misciagna (Red Bank, N.J.) conclude their careers with a record of 56-19-15 (.706).

"Our five seniors have left an unbelievable mark on our program," head coach Ann Clifton said. "They went to the NCAA tournament all four years of their career, and we will all work hard to live up to the legacy they have created. They will be a part of our program forever."

The Tigers controlled the ball for the better part of the game, including a significant part of the first half, but was unable to get a score until netting the game-winner in the 104th minute. Play in the second half was more balanced, but Princeton had several series of long attacks deep in Villanova territory. However, each time, Wildcat goalkeeper Jillian Loyden (Vineland, N.J.) and the rest of the Villanova defense was there to make a crucial stop. Loyden matched her season high of 10 saves, including seven after halftime.

"We had a great effort today, and Jillian was absolutely tremendous in the net," Clifton said. "Princeton is a team that can go very far in this tournament. They have it all. They have solid goalkeeping, a good defense, and an unbelievable front line. They are exceptionally well coached and they can do great things."

Villanova was outshot 24-3 for the game, including a 15-1 margin in the second period of regulation. The team's best chance to score came in the first overtime period, when Villari sent a ball from 25 yards towards the top right corner of the net. However, the shot sailed inches over the crossbar.

Princeton, which is the #7 seed in this year's tournament, will face Boston College in a third round game next weekend.