Defending MAAC Champion Monmouth scored twice in the final 17 minutes to rally past Siena Women’s Soccer 2-1 in both teams’ conference opener in West Long Branch, N.J. Brianne Boyle scored with just 3:50 left in regulation to win it for the Hawks.

Siena (3-5-2, 0-1) got off to a fast start, pulling in front in the fifth minute. Sophomore Tara Sobierajski’s corner found classmate Kristen Connors who put home her first collegiate goal.

Monmouth (6-3, 1-0) out-shot Siena 23-4 and held a 6-2 edge in corners, but still trailed for three quarters of the match thanks to Taylor Booth. The Saints’ senior captain made eight of her 10 saves in the second half to preserve the lead late into the night.

But the Hawks were relentless, firing 16 shots in the second half alone and finally drew even on Rachelle Ross’ fifth goal of the year in the 74^th minute. With time winding down in regulation, Boyle stunned the Saints with the game-winner in the 87^th minute to snap the Saints’ four-match unbeaten streak (2-0-2).

Nicole D’Agostino made two saves for Monmouth which survived a strong Siena challenge to improve to a perfect 9-0-2 all-time in MAAC regular season action and 12-0-2 overall including the postseason.

In the midst of a tough span where they play five of six on the road, the Saints return to the Capital Region for their lone home match during the stretch to host Iona Saturday at 1 p.m. in the conference home opener.

The Saints will host an alumni gathering at the match and Siena Women’s Soccer alumni in attendance will be recognized at halftime and are invited to a tailgate reception following the conclusion of the match. Alumni who wish to attend are kindly asked to RSVP to either Coach Karbowski or Coach DeNoyer as soon as possible at (518) 782-6826 or by e-mail at skarbowski@siena.edu or bdenoyer@siena.edu.