ROCHESTER, NY – The SUNY Oneonta women’s soccer team defeated Rowan University, 2-0 in the first round of the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament. The first and second round games are being held at the University of Rochester.

In the other first round game, Rochester won 2-0 over College Misericordia. SUNY Oneonta (18-2-1) and Rochester (15-1-3) play in the second round on Sunday at 1 p.m. The winner advances to the sectionals next weekend.

Midfielder Mary Velan (jr. Stamford, NY/Stamford) scored both of the Red Dragons’ goals. She put back a pass from forward Corinne Tisei (sr. New Hyde Park, NY/Herricks) at 78:06 to give Oneonta a 1-0 lead. Just over two minutes later, Velan had a goal from 25 yards out that found its way inside the right post.

Both team took eight shots. Goalie Jeannine Marra (jr. Thiells, NY/N. Rockland) stopped one shot for Oneonta. Rowan goalie Gabrielle Ditchey (sr. Mt. Laurel, NJ/Lenape Reg.) made one save.

Rowan finishes the season with a 13-4-2 record. This was the Profs’ third appearance in the national tournament and second straight.