Gorham, Maine--Junior defender Grace Aukerman (Ashford, Conn.) scored what proved to be the game-winning goal as Rhode Island College defeated Southern Maine, 2-1, in Little East action played at Hannaford Field on Saturday afternoon.
 
THE BASICS
Rhode Island College 2, Southern Maine 1
Rhode Island College (6-2, 3-0 LEC)
Southern Maine (4-3, 1-1 LEC)
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
• It was junior forward Amber Almeida (Sturbridge, Mass.) who started the Anchorwomen off out in front with a score in the 32^nd minute.
 
• Aukerman scored her first collegiate goal to put the visitors up by a pair, 2-0, against the defending conference champs.
 
• The Huskies immediately rattled off three shots, two of which were on target, in the opening 10 minutes of the second half as USM begin its comeback bid.
 
• USM converted on a free kick chance in the 55^th minute thanks to a foul by the Anchorwomen.
 
• RIC's defense would stand strong and close out the game to remain undefeated in Little East play and extend its win-streak to four consecutive matches.
 
• The Huskies outshot RIC on the day, 26-9, and held a decisive advantage in the second half, 15-3.

• Freshman goalkeeper Oceanna Orlandi (East Greenwich, R.I.) made eight saves and secured the win (5-2).

• It was Southern Maine's first conference loss since the 2022 season.
 
WHAT'S NEXT
In upcoming action, Rhode Island College will host Mass. Maritime on Wednesday, Oct. 1 (6 p.m.).