The Medgar Evers College women's soccer team (0-1) opened its 2026 campaign Monday afternoon, dropping a non-conference matchup against Lehman College (2-3) at Linden Park. While the Cougars faced an early deficit, they turned in a much more competitive performance over the final 30 minutes, providing plenty of positives to build upon as the rebuilding program continues to develop.
Lehman came out aggressively, scoring eight times during the opening half. Amy Quintana accounted for two of the Lightning's early goals, including the game's opening tally at 6:46 off an assist from Miriam Bernal. Quintana later assisted on Emily Huerta's goal, while Madai Chavez and Jensy Peri also found the back of the net during a quick stretch that put Lehman ahead. Peri scored twice, with her second goal assisted by Quintana.
Brithany Guizado converted a penalty kick in the 28th minute before Abigail Santana added Lehman's eighth goal in the 37th minute.
Despite the difficult opening half, Medgar Evers responded with a noticeably different approach after halftime. The Cougars became more aggressive offensively, tightened things up defensively and competed with Lehman much more evenly during the final 30 minutes.
The Cougars generated their first two shots of the contest in the opening minutes of the second half, with Danajah Lawrence and Valeria De Los Santos both putting attempts on target that required saves from Lehman goalkeeper Leonor Ramirez-Vasquez.
Defensively, Medgar Evers also settled in considerably. The Cougars held Lehman scoreless throughout the second half. Goalkeeper Shanya Aitcheson made four saves after entering the contest, helping keep Lehman off the scoreboard during the final 34 minutes.
The Cougars finished with two shots, both on target, while Lehman recorded 32 shots and 14 shots on goal. Medgar Evers also limited Lehman to 12 second-half shots after the Lightning registered 20 in the opening half. Newcomer Damali Browne also showed tremendous intensity on the defensive side, improving considerably as the match progressed and providing a spark for the young Cougars
For a young team beginning the process of rebuilding, the second-half response offered an encouraging foundation. The Cougars demonstrated greater composure, defensive organization and attacking intent as the match progressed — elements they can carry forward as the season continues.
Medgar Evers will look to build on that second-half effort when the Cougars return to action on Saturday, October 3, traveling to CCNY for their first CUNYAC matchup of the season. The contest will take place at New Rochelle City Park, with kickoff scheduled for 12 p.m.
