POUGHKEEPSIE, New York - In a thrilling match that went down to the final minutes, the Marist Women's Soccer team secured a 1-1 tie against Iona in its Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference opener at Tenney Stadium at Leonidoff Field on Saturday evening.

After a scoreless start to the contest, Iona broke the deadlock late in the first half when Dolene Smith found the back of the net in the 40th minute, assisted by Marissa Graziano, giving the Gaels a 1-0 lead going into halftime.

The Red Foxes came out with renewed energy in the second half, dominating the possession and shots on goal. They were relentless in their attack, outshooting Iona 7-0 in the second half alone.

Their persistence paid off with just under two minutes left in regulation. Freshman Jiji Sweiss, with an assist from junior Gabby Tirado, scored her first career goal to tie the game at 1-1 in the 89th minute. The last-minute goal sealed the draw for the Red Foxes, earning crucial early-season conference points.

Marist goalkeeper Maddy Catalanotti had a strong performance in goal, making one save. The Red Foxes finished the game with 12 shots, five of which were on target, compared to Iona's three shots.

The Red Foxes' next game is against New Haven on Tuesday, September 9th, back home at Tenney Stadium.