BROOKLYN, NY - The Iona College women's soccer team dropped a 1-0 decision to Long Island in non-conference action.  The Gaels (1-1) surrendered the game-winning goal to the Blackbirds, who won their tenth straight contest at home, with just under 20 minutes left to play.

Long Island's Samantha Hoak gained possession of a loose ball on the right side of the 18-yard box and set off a low shot into the near post for the lone goal of the evening.  Junior Abby Dixon and freshman Carly Villanova each registered a shot on goal for the Maroon & Gold.  Sophomore goalkeeper Kelly Mahoney made five saves in the net over 90 minutes.

"We played a little tentative in the first half, then came out in the second half and did a lot better," said head coach Eric Teepe.  "We began to put a lot of pressure on them, even after we lost Diane Hare and Amber Blocher to injuries during the game.  We got some chances late but really couldn't find anything that would save the game for us.  I felt it was the type of game we need to learn how to win, and that will be our next step."

The Gaels continue non-league play with the third of a five-game road series to open the season.  Iona travels to face Hartford on Sep. 2 at 6:00 pm.