PURCHASE, N.Y. — A late goal was the difference Saturday as the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy edged out the Purchase College women's soccer team, 1-0. 

In defeat, the host Panthers dropped to 4-7-4 on the season and 2-5 in the Skyline Conference, while the Mariners advanced to 5-4-2 overall and 5-1-2 in the league.

Both teams came into the conference matchup with high expectations, and it was evident from the opening whistle that the contest would be a closely fought battle. 

After 85 minutes of scoreless action, the visitors broke the deadlock with a goal from Ainsley Carlon off the feed from Natalie Colpoys. The pivotal moment arrived at 85:20 when Colpoys delivered a cross from the right side to an unmarked Carlon for an open shot from close range. 

Despite relentless pressure in the dying minutes of play, Purchase couldn't break through to score, as the final whistle delivered their 1-0 defeat.

Panther goalkeeper Carolyn Hough (SO/Massapequa, NY) picked up an impressive 13 saves across 90 minutes of play, despite being tagged with the loss. USMMA goalie Ronnie Florek collected one save for the visitors.

Merchant Marine won the shot differential (41-4; 14-1 on goal) and the corner kicks (10-3).

Up next, Purchase looks to turn the tide and secure a victory in its upcoming Skyline matchup hosted by The College at Old Westbury on Oct. 18. Kickoff is slated for 4:30 p.m.

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