Lasell Blanks Salem State 6-0 In Season Opener

NEWTON, Mass. - The Lasell Lasers shutout Salem State 6-0 on opening day at Grellier Field thanks to Abbey Playe's hat-trick performance. Lasell improves to 1-0 while the Vikings drop to 0-1 to begin the 2023 campaign.

Before the game head coach Atkinson talked about how excited she was now that the 2023 season is officially underway. "I am super excited. I have been looking forward to this probably since last year. We were successful at the beginning of our game last year, but we didn't come up with the win so I am really hoping today we work together and use our experience from last year to grow."

The Lasers struck first as they scored early in the game, attacking the zone in the first five minutes of the game and putting pressure on the Vikings' defense. Lasell outshot the Salem State 10 to 1 in the first period.

Midfielder Playe extended the lead, scoing three of the four Laser goals in the first half. Vikings goaltender Izzy Mosley (Middleborough, Mass.) made some huge saves in the first half, stoppig 14 of 18 shots on goal. 

A highlight of the third period came with 1:08 remaining as goaltender Mosley made a great save, sliding to  prevent Kaylene Ellis from scoring.

In the fourth period the Lasers netted two more goals in the game thanks to midfielder Jacquelyn Scopa's multi-goal game.

Vikings goaltender Izzy Mosley saved 28 of 34 shots on goal.

Vikings captain, midfielder Melanie Mason (Beverly, Mass.) talked about how the team is going to regroup after the first loss of the season "I think we need to improve our communication. Knowing  off-ball movement as well. I think we were hiding a little bit, so stepping out in front of the defense was helpful."  

Said Atkinson, "Lasell was obviously very difficult for us, but Endicott will be as well. I think it is going to be a good testament to see how we can recover and bounce back, but I think it will help leading into our conference play. We have all of our non-conference games in the beginning and although is not fun losing, it's a learning experience so come Monday, hopefully, we can get those bits and pieces up in the small passing patterns again and defensively protect our feet and not reach. If we can do those two things I will be happy no matter the score.

The Vikings will return back home on Labor Day for their home opener as they take on Endicott, September 4. Game time is at 11 a.m.