Reading, PA- Penn State Berks women's soccer could not hold off a second half rally Lancaster Bible College, allowing a goal right before the end of regulation to fall 2-1 on Tuesday, October 7. 

Berks maintained offensive pressure early in the first half, as Ashley Jocham and Paige Thomas each tested the Chargers goalkeeper early. The team kept creating scoring chances and finally broke through in the 40th minute. Devon Deery launched a corner kick across the box, finding Victoria McPoyle and she headed the ball into the net for her second goal of the season. Sophia Gonzalez made crucial saves to deny LBC multiple times, helping to preserve the lead. The first half concluded with Penn State Berks ahead, 1-0.

The second half began with the Nittany Lions holding a narrow lead, but Lancaster quickly applied pressure, leading to several defensive saves by goalkeeper Gonzalez. Despite the early resistance, Lancaster equalized in the 59th minute with a goal from Janae Bergey, assisted by Zoe Beers. Penn State Berks sought to regain momentum with attempts by Jocham and Faith Wavershak, but Lancaster's defense held firm. As the half progressed, Lancaster capitalized once more, with Bergey securing her second goal with under 30 seconds remaining, again assisted by Beers. The Nittany Lions could not answer, falling 2-1. 

Gonzalez made a notable impact in goal, recording 10 saves over 90 minutes of play. McPoyle contributed offensively with a goal from her two shots, one of which was on target. Deery added an assist, helping to set up one of the team's scoring opportunities. Jocham was active on the attack, taking three shots with two on goal.

WHO'S NEXT
The Nittany Lions will travel to Middletown, PA, to face Penn State Harrisburg. The match is set for Saturday, October 11 at 6:00 PM. 

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