PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – The Plattsburgh State women's soccer team remained unblemished in SUNYAC conference play on Saturday afternoon, defeating the Cortland Red Dragons 2-0 at the Field House Soccer Complex.
 
Cardinal midfielder Madeline Saccocio (Schenectady, N.Y./Schalmont) was the standout hero of the afternoon.
 
The Red Dragons seemed to control play in the opening minutes of the contest. The Cardinals were able to maintain their composure and start to build a momentum of their own. That momentum showing in the second half.
 
In the 54' minute, Saccocio took charge of a corner kick opportunity, and with her left foot was able to bend the ball in towards the net. Red Dragon goalie Victoria Barclay got the tips of her fingers on the ball, only to have it hit the underside of the crossbar and deflect in for the score.
 
Less than a minute later, it was Saccocio again who received a pass down the wing from Sarah Bonner (Yorktown Heights, N.Y./Yorktown) and carried the play toward the 18-yard box. The junior ripped a shot that sailed passed Barclay and hit side netting for her second goal of the contest.
 
The two goal swing brought a visible boost in confidence to the Cardinals, who continued to protect against Red Dragon threats for the remainder of the game.
 
The Cardinal defense made a very solid showing, helping out goalie Nichole Gibson (Arkport, N.Y./Arkport) who made five saves, and recorded her second straight shutout with the victory.
 
With the win, Plattsburgh State is now 7-4, and 3-0 in SUNYAC conference play this season.
 
The Cardinals will now prep for a non-conference match scheduled for Tuesday against the Clarkson Golden Knights. Game time is set for 6 p.m.