POTSDAM, N.Y. --- The Utica Pioneers (5-0) remained undefeated in the 2019 season after downing the SUNY Potsdam women's soccer team (4-3) 3-1 on Friday afternoon. Senior forward Mikayla Blumenstock (Poland, N.Y./Poland) scored a goal in each half for the Pioneers after they trailed 1-0 early. Sophomore forward Mackenzie Bowie (Mechanicville, N.Y./Mechanicville) scored for the Bears.
 
Bowie scored after picking up a pass near the penalty area and sent the ball high into the net for the first goal of the afternoon at 23:45. The Pioneers responded just 43 seconds later as Blumenstock got through four Bears defenders near the box and sent the ball into the corner. Aggression picked up as both teams looked to take control and a lead into the second half. Junior midfielder Kierra Caissey (Gardner, Ma/Gardner) nearly gave the Pioneers the lead as she got around two Bears defenders and got a shot off near the goal. However, her attempt was picked up by junior goalkeeper Gabby Hobika (New Hartford, N.Y./New Hartford). Sophomore midfielder Kristina Sanchez (Averill Park, N.Y./Averill Park) gave the Bears one of their best chances at the 2:14 mark, as her shot hit the left post off a free kick.
 
The intensity of both teams carried on into the second half. Utica senior goalkeeper Allison Wagner (Canandaigua, N.Y./Canandaigua) came up with three stops early in the final period. On offense, the Pioneers took the lead at the 53:23 mark via an own goal. Junior defender Emma Workman (launched a corner kick into the box and it was misplayed into the net to make it 2-1. Hobika was injured on the play and replaced by junior goalkeeper Delphine Léonard (Anjou, Quebec/Dawson College Prep). Léonard prevented many scoring opportunities for Utica near the penalty area with smart and aggressive play. On the other side, Wagner's defense was also crucial for Utica, stopping a shot by Bears sophomore forward Margaret Crosson (East Aurora, N.Y./East Aurora) on the goal line as time wound down. With 2:44 to go, Blumenstock won a footrace with four Potsdam defenders and deposited the ball into the net to seal the win.  
 
Hobika made one save and allowed two goals in the first 53:23 and Léonard made a save and allowed a goal in the last 36:37. Wagner had eight saves for the win.
 
Potsdam had an 15-8 advantage in shots and a 6-1 edge in corners.
 
The Bears host St. Lawrence University at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Maxcy Turf Field.