NYU Outlasts Vassar, 4-3; Remains Unbeaten
The New York University women's soccer team, ranked #19 in the nation, posted a 4-3 victory over host Vassar College on Saturday in Poughkeepsie, New York.
The offense was led by Rena Kalargiros, who recorded her second career hat trick, the first since her collegiate debut. Kalargiros' final goal with less than five minutes remaining (85:20) lifted the Violets to victory and was aided by the third assist of the contest from Kelli Keady.
"It was definitely a wild one," said Head Coach Scott Waddell.
Kalagiros' two goals within a span of two minutes midway through the first half, gave NYU the early advantage. She scored at 22:43 unassisted, then came right back to take a pass from Keady and find the back of the net again at 24:22.
Riley McGrath's goal at 29:40 for Vassar trimmed its deficit to 2-1 at halftime.
Not far into the second half, Hope Neale's goal at 53:36 re-established a two-goal advantage for NYU as Keady recorded her second assist.
However, Vassar (4-1-2) erased the deficit by scoring a pair, another coming from McGrath, and the score was knotted at 3-3.
That's when Kalargiros put her final stamp on the contest and solidified the win for NYU.
"Rena has been excellent all season. Her tenacity in midfield and IQ has been integral to our success so far," Waddell added. "Today, she brought her shooting boots as well! We are all really happy for her. Glad she could have such a special day and lift us to victory against a very competitive Vassar team."