Just 24 hours after scoring her first career goal, freshman forward Christina Akalski (Long Beach, N.Y./Kellenberg Memorial) scored again on Sunday to lift The University of Scranton women’s soccer team to a 1-0 victory over York (Pa.) at Fitzpatrick Field in the second day of the Joe Bochicchio Classic.

Akalski scored in the 68th minute when she connected on a corner kick by freshman midfielder Kelly Egan (Essex Falls, N.J./West Essex Senior) from five yards out to break a scoreless tie. A day earlier, Akalski scored the Royals’ only goal in a 1-0 win over Lebanon Valley at Fitzpatrick Field.

After holding off the Spartans (2-2) in the first half, the Royals (2-2) gained control after the break, holding an 11-2 advantage in shots in the final 45 minutes. Scranton’s advantage in shots for the game was 14-8, and it also held and 8-3 edge in corner kicks.

Senior goalkeeper Kelsy McAnelly (West Chester, Pa./Villa Maria Academy) picked up her second straight shutout and the 25th of her career by making three saves. She is now tied for second for most career shutouts in school history.

Scranton also got another strong game along the backline, as junior Ellen Walker (Bethlehem, Pa./Liberty) and sophomore Megan Manzo (Shelton, Conn./Shelton) anchored a group that allowed only three shots on goal.

Eight different Royals registered shots, led by three apiece for Egan, who hit the crossbar twice, and sophomore forward Gianna Vitolo (Denville, N.J./Morris Knolls).

The Royals return to action on Wednesday, Sept. 11, when they host Kean at 7 p.m. at Fitzpatrick Field.

The Joe Bochicchio Classic is played annually in memory of late Royals head coach Joe Bochicchio, who passed away in 2007. In 23 seasons, he led The University of Scranton women’s soccer program to 296 victories, 15 conference championships and 11 NCAA Tournament appearances.

--ROYALS--

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