PURCHASE, N.Y. — An evenly played conference matchup was decided by a contentious penalty kick Wednesday night at Purchase, with visiting Maritime College prevailing 1-0.

From the opening whistle, both teams displayed a level of intensity that set the tone for the entire match. The game was marred by numerous fouls and collisions as players fought relentlessly for control of the ball.

The decisive moment of the match came in the 72nd minute when Maritime was awarded a penalty kick after a disputed foul inside the box. Privateer midfielder Kathryn Sandford stepped up to take the crucial spot-kick and slotted it into the top right corner, leaving Purchase goalie Carolyn Hough (SO/Massapequa, NY) no chance at a save. 

The Panthers tried valiantly to find an equalizer but faced a resolute goalkeeper who denied every opportunity that came her way. The physicality of the game led to several yellow cards, including two given to the Maritime coaching staff, reflecting the fierce competition on the field.

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.

Purchase held a 14-7 edge in shots (7-5 on goal) over Maritime. Sophomore midfielder Julieth Velasquez (SO/White Plains, NY) led the home team's attack in shots with four total, including a spectacular free-kick attempt from 35 yards out that had fans at the edge of their seats midway through the second half. Freshman midfielder Emily Giron (Newburgh, NY) delivered a flawless 2-for-2 on frame in yet another stellar performance.

The Panthers, now 2-2-4 overall and 1-1 in the Skyline, look to get back to their winning ways this Saturday on the road against Mount Saint Vincent College. The league contest will kick off at 4 p.m.

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