Baltimore, Md. (Sept. 5, 2015) - Alvernia University (1-1) faced a tough test in its first game of the Johns Hopkins Tournament, falling 2-1 to Frostburg State University on day one of the Blue Jay Invitational, held at Johns Hopkins University.

The contest opened with strong defensive efforts from both sides as the game remained scoreless through the first half. The Crusaders defense saw 13 shots from the experienced, NCAA tournament-tested Bobcats before the half, with all four shots on goal being saved by sophomore Jessica Plunkett.

Frostburg's offense, which boasts four senior starters, attacked early in the second half. The Bobcats capitalized on a Crusaders lapse, posting goals within two minutes of each other for the 2-0 advantage.

Alvernia was able to cut Frostburg's lead in half with just under six minutes left as Hannah Mallets placed a quality restart cross to the far post that Kayla McNamee headed home.

Plunkett finished the game in goal with six saves.

"I was pleased to see the squad continue to fight," said coach Bill Bonewitz. "This game should be a huge confidence builder for the squad as they learned they can compete with high level teams."

Alvernia returns to action on Sunday for day two of the Invitational, taking on York College of Pennsylvania at 1:00.