Cardoso's Early Goal, Goldsmith's Shutout Lifts Soccer Over Babson

BABSON PARK, Mass. -- Senior Lena Cardoso scored the game's only goal just 5:13 into the first half and sophomore goalkeeper Kat Goldsmith made it stand up with six saves as visiting Wellesley College slipped past Babson College, 1-0, in a New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) women's soccer match on Tuesdayafternoon at Hartwell-Rogers Field.

With the win, Wellesley is now 5-7-1 overall and 2-1-0 in conference play while Babson falls to 7-3-2 overall and 2-2-1 in the league.

After being pinned in its defensive third for the opening five minutes of the game, the Blue scored on its first opportunity of the match. Senior LJ Foster won a ball at midfield and made a long run down the right flank before serving a long cross towards the top of the box. Cardoso settled the ball and ripped a 10-yard shot over Beavers' junior goalkeeper Melina Kapotsis for her fourth goal of the season.

Babson had an opportunity to even the game late in the first half as first-year Jen Narlee got to a bouncing ball inside the six-yard box following a corner kick from sophomore Kristina Simonson, but Goldsmith was able make a sprawling save at the right post to keep Wellesley in front.

Senior Mika Cucullo had both of the Beavers' best second-half scoring opportunities. After eluding a defender at the top of the box she missed just high at 59:37, and later in the period had her shot saved following a pass from sophomore Nikki Beatham in the 73rd minute.

Kapotsis finished with one first half save for Babson before giving way to first-year Meaghan Merullo, who made one stop in the second half.

The Beavers held a 14-5 advantage in shots and a 5-0 edge in corner kicks on the day.

Wellesley's win was just the second in the last 10 years against Babson and it snapped several Beavers streaks. The Blue broke Babson's 10-game unbeaten streak at home, dating back last year. Wellesley's victory also handed Babson its first shutout at home since a 0-0 2OT tie against Wheaton October of last year. 

Wellesley is back in action on Saturday, hosting Mount Holyoke in a NEWMAC clash beginning at 1:00pm. Babson next entertains Coast Guard, playing a a 1:00pm game on Saturday, as well.