NEW ROCHELLE, NY – A second half surge pushed Niagara past Iona in the opening MAAC contest of the 2018 season. The Purple Eagles outshot the Maroon & Gold 16-4 in the second half and blitzed their way to a 3-0 victory.

Two-time MAAC Rookie of the Week Annie Ibey scored her fifth goal of the season in the 60' to give Niagara a lead. Six minutes later Lauren Testa battered home a ricocheted save by Iona goalkeeper Emma Havrilla to double the Maroon & Gold's deficit. Ibey gets credit for the assist with her initial on target attempt.

The final Niagara goal was scored by Ida Miceli in the 88'. She had a header directly off a free kick and after Havrilla saved the initial, Miceli footed home her first of the season.

Freshman Faith Preziosi had a team-best three shots and one shot on goal for Iona. Graduate Christine Rebus and redshirt freshman Mackenzie Meixner had two shots each. Rookie Andrea Ferrer had one shot on goal.

Iona outshot Niagara 7-2 in the first half, but fell prey to tired legs in the second half. Havrilla made four saves in the game, all coming in the final 45'. The Purple Eagles had a 6-1 corner kick advantage.

Saturday's result is the third straight shutout for Niagara. Additionally, Iona has gone goalless for three straight games.

The Maroon & Gold's next game is at home against Marist on Saturday, Sept. 22. Kickoff between the Gaels and Red Foxes is scheduled for 11 a.m.

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