Mount St. Mary’s University women’s soccer fell 2-1 to Niagara on Oct. 7, 2026, in Emmitsburg, Maryland, despite a goal from goalkeeper Abby Makela. Makela scored in the 12th minute before Niagara’s Naiya Johnston and Caitlyn Gratton scored after halftime.
Abby Makela scores from goalkeeper position
Makela, a redshirt sophomore goalkeeper, gave Mount St. Mary’s an early lead with her goal in the 12th minute. A clearance from the top of her defending box carried toward the Niagara goal, bounced over Niagara goalkeeper Julia Poissant and entered the net.
The goal marked the first by a Mount St. Mary’s goalkeeper since Sadie Winship scored from 40 yards on a free kick against Central Connecticut on Oct. 25, 2009. Makela’s goal was Mount St. Mary’s only score of the match.
Niagara scores twice after halftime
Johnston tied the match for Niagara in the 53rd minute, with Mahelie Barbeau recording the assist. Gratton scored the winning goal in the 59th minute, again assisted by Barbeau.
Makela left the match after a collision, and Anna Wall made two saves after entering the game. Mount St. Mary’s finished with five shots on goal, while Niagara recorded nine.
Mount St. Mary’s women’s soccer schedule
The result left Mount St. Mary’s at 2-8-2 overall and 2-4-1 in the Metro Conference. Mount St. Mary’s will host Manhattan on Saturday, Oct. 10, at Waldron Family Stadium at the PNC Sports Complex.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
Makela’s goal gave Mount St. Mary’s an early advantage, but Niagara’s two second-half goals determined the 2-1 result. The Mount will return home to face Manhattan.
Source: Original report
