RINDGE, N.H. – In the first round of the Northeast-10 Conference Championships, the Pace University women's soccer team was defeated by Franklin Pierce on the road on Tuesday by a score of 1-0. The loss shifts the Blue and Gold's record to 9-9-1 this season, while the Ravens move to 11-3-2.

In a game that was controlled by strong defensive play and mainly possession in the midfield, it was goal from Veronica Marques in the 37^th minute that proved to be the difference.

The Setters' attack had trouble creating scoring chances against a Ravens' defense that entered the day ranked third in the NE10 in goals-against average (0.72).

Pace, which has enjoyed success off set pieces this season, was unable to initiate any corner-kick opportunities against the Ravens. The Blue and Gold were limited to a season-low two shots on net—one by Erika Becerra (43^rd minute) and the other by Mackenzie Kurek (47^th minute).

On the other side, the Ravens recorded just four shots on net—three of which were saved by senior goalie Hayley Pascoal (Freehold, NJ/Freehold Township).