NEW ROCHELLE, NY – All of Gael Nation at Mazzella Field were sent home happy Sunday afternoon as the Iona women's soccer program earned its first win of the season in its home-opener against LIU Brooklyn in overtime, 2-1. 

Graduate Erika Flowers scored her 12th career goal, and fourth career game-winner in the 100th minute of the match to give the Gaels the victory.  Senior co-captain Marissa Dundas sent a ground pass into the box that found Flowers charging down the right side.  While falling to the ground, Flowers pushed a grounded shot to the deep left side of the net.

Junior Mariana Jaramillo scored her first goal of the season in the 24th minute.  Taking control of the ball in the midfield, she dribbled forward, deked one Blackbird defender, and then rocketed a shot from 24 yards out to give the Gaels the initial lead.

Senior Jenn Peters, who was the Blackbirds' most consistent threat, took advantage of a loose ball in the box and brought the game to deadlock in the 53rd minute.

Jaramillo led the Gaels with three total shots, two on goal.  Flowers, graduate Jacque Rice, and freshman Lisette Palomo all had two shot attempts coming off the bench.  The Maroon & Gold outshot the Blackbirds 15-14 and had a 7 to 4 advantage in corner kick opportunities.

Senior Tiffany Martinez made six saves in the game, three of which came in the overtime period.

The Gaels return to action on Friday, Sept. 1 on Mazzella Field against the University at Albany at 3:00 PM.  The game can be seen on ESPN3.

Fans can keep up with the latest news and excitement surrounding Iona women's soccer by following the team on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.