Worcester, MA --- Sophomore Alicia Macomber (Stoughton, MA) potted the game-winning goal in the 78th minute to help lift Worcester State to a 1-0 triumph over Western Connecticut in non-conference women's soccer action this evening.

With the win the Lancers up their mark to 5-4 while the Colonials fall to 8-4 with the setback. WSCU enter the contest in a six-way tie for the 10th spot in the latest NSCAA New England Regional Poll.

Three minutes into the contest, senior Ariana D'Aurio (Cheshire, CT) almost gave the visitors the 1-0 advantage when she was all alone on the left side of the net. Her first attempt was blocked by senior Brittany Rotatori (Auburn, MA) and her quick rebound try was denied by sophomore net minder Jillian Witkowski (Leicester, MA).

The Blue and Gold had a great opportunity in the 25th minute on open shot by junior Cassie Giardina (Pittsfield, MA) who nearly banked her bid off the left post, but the ball trickled past the cage.

D'Aurio had another good look on a breakaway off the ensuing goal kick, however, Witkowski made a great play to track the ball down and her attempt was booted to the right side of the net.

After the intermission, freshman Celia Devoe (Farmington, CT) had two great chances early on in the second period for the Colonials. On WSCU's first series of the frame, her first attempt was wide to the right and her second effort moments later from the middle of the box was stopped by Witkoski.  

D'Aurio had a nice chance with a header in the 64th minute, but Witkowski snatched the ball in midair to end the threat.

Worcester State's stout defensive effort and strong play in the midfield helped set the stage for Macomber's heroics. Macomber took a long pass from the 50-yardline from junior Sarina Lathrop (Hopedale, MA), dribbled the ball past the goalie at the top of the box and sent in her team-best fifth marker of the season with 12:21 remaining in regulation.

Western Connecticut had two corner kick tries in the final five minutes of regulation, but could not get a shot off with the game on the line.

Witkoski stopped all seven shots she saw in her second shutout of the campaign as she helped blank a team that currently leads the Little East in goals, assists and points.

Freshman keeper Alison Rettenmeier (Sherman, CT) was called up on to make five saves in the setback for the Colonials.

The visitors held the slim lead in shots (13-11) and shots on goal (7-6) as corner kicks were even (4-4).

Both squads resume their conference schedules on Saturday afternoon. Worcester State travels to Bridgewater State in a key matchup against the Bears at 1 o'clock while Western Connecticut hosts Plymouth State at 12 PM.

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