Michelle Iacono’s goal in the 34^th minute was the difference as Rider defeated Siena Women’s Soccer 1-0 in both programs’ conference opener Saturday afternoon in Lawrenceville, N.J.

Opening its 22^nd MAAC season, Siena (4-5, 0-1) faced an evenly matched Rider (4-3, 1-0) squad and the contest proved to be equally tight. Siena, which was picked sixth in the MAAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, harbored a 13-11 edge in shots over the Broncs (predicted fifth) and a 6-1 advantage in corners.

But the Broncs broke through for the only tally as Priscilla Santos found Iacono for her third tally of the season.

Taylor D’Alfonso led the Saints with four shots and Taylor Booth made one save for Siena which remained winless on the road this season (0-4).

Vanessa Perdomo earned the win in goal for Rider making one save. Bethan-May Howard made three saves, playing the second half.

The Saints return to action for a midweek MAAC contest Wednesday at new conference member Quinnipiac. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. from Hamden, Conn. 

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