BOX SCORE

Reading, Pa. (Sept. 15, 2009) - In a game of first Alvernia University (3-1) bettered Misericordia University (2-3), 1-0 on a goal by junior Christy Yousaitis (West Lawn, Pa./Wilson) Tuesday afternoon in non-conference field hockey action at Alvernia.

It was the first time in 17 years the two teams met as non-conference opponents, its the first season for the Crusaders on a new, on-campus turf field, and the first tally of the year for the junior Yousaitis.

The scoreless tie was broken midway through the second half with Yousaitis being in the right place at the right time cleaning up a scrum in front of the Misericordia net. 

Alvernia finished with a decided 12-5 advantage in shots even with Misericordia evening up the corner totals with three in the second half.  Sophomore Abby Eby (New Holland, Pa./Garden Spot) saved two shots in each half to pick up her second 1-0 shutout of the season.  The Crusaders blanked York College 11 days ago to start their modest three-game win streak.  It's the longest streak since second year head coach Nicole Rhoads led the Crusaders on a four-game stretch early last season en route to a 5-2 start.

Misericordia netminder Grace Riker finished the day with five saves.

Alvernia will continue a four-game home stand hosting Gwynedd-Mercy College Saturday under the lights at 7:00 and get the final tune-up for the conference schedule hosting Franklin & Marshall next Wednesday.

Alvernia has now won six of the last seven games in the series against Misericordia improving to 7-11 against the Cougars.  Both schools were charter members of the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference in 1992 and both schools joined the Freedom Conference last year before Alvernia's move to the Commonwealth this season.

The Commonwealth schedule kicks off Saturday, Sept. 26 at national #1 Messiah College.

Alvernia 1, Misericordia 0