JAMAICA, N.Y. — The Cedar Crest College soccer team cruised past York College (NY) with a decisive 6-1 victory at York College Outdoor Athletic Complex on Saturday, highlighted by a hat trick performance by first-year Laila Stevenson (Sayreville, N.J./Sayreville War Memorial).

The first half commenced with the Falcons asserting early offensive pressure, culminating in a goal by sophomore Lizzy DeNunzio (Easton, Pa./Easton Area) in the fourth minute, assisted by Stevenson, to take an early lead.  Cedar Crest maintained control, with Stevenson later extending the advantage to 2-0 in the 35th minute, this time with an assist from DeNunzio. Throughout the half, the Falcons' offense tested the Cardinals' defense with multiple shots, including several saves by first-year Amaniya Aiken (St. Albans, N.Y.)

The second half began with Cedar Crest establishing control, as first-year Amiyah Carroll (Severn, Md./Old Mill Senior) nearly found the back of the net with a shot that struck the woodwork in the 48th minute. Stevenson broke through in the 58th minute, assisted by first-year Caroline Rodriguez (Catasauqua, Pa./Catasauqua), to extend the lead to 3-0. The Falcons maintained their intensity, with DeNunzio and junior Avery Kramer (Blandon, Pa./Fleetwood Area) adding goals, supported by assists from Kramer and senior Lauren Davis (Oley, Pa./Oley Valley), respectively. Stevenson capped off the visitor's commanding second half with a goal in the 74th minute, securing a decisive 6-1 victory despite York's brief response.

Stevenson recorded a hat trick, scoring three goals and adding one assist, while also leading the team with eight shots, six of which were on goal. Kramer contributed with one goal and one assist, tallying six shots with three on target. DeNunzio scored twice and assisted another goal, matching Stevenson with eight shots and six shots on goal. Rodriguez added an assist, contributing to Cedar Crest's offensive efforts.

Aiken stood out in the goal for the Cardinals, recording 12 saves against 33 shots faced. Despite the heavy pressure, she managed to save seven shots in the first half and five in the second. On the offensive side, First-year Stephanie Gonzalez (Brooklyn, N.Y.) contributed significantly with one goal on three shots, two of which were on target. Her efforts were crucial in providing the team with some offensive momentum.

Cedar Crest (1-4-0 overall) returns to the pitch on Wednesday, September 17 in home match against Gwynedd Mercy University at 5:00 p.m. York (N.Y.) (0-2-0 overall) will travel to Purchase College for its next contest on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.