Brookville, N.Y. – UMBC senior forward Meghan McKye scored the only goal of the game in the 12th minute as the visiting Retrievers spoiled the LIU Sharks' home-opener on Sunday afternoon at LIU Soccer Field.
 
UMBC, who defeated LIU last season in Baltimore, evened their record at 2-2 and handed the hosts their first loss of the season after they had won their first two matches.
 
Junior midfielder Esther Juretzka created the biggest play of the game after she stole the ball near midfield, took a few dribbles down the center of the pitch, and led the streaking McKye with a gorgeous pass just outside of the box.  McKye (team-high 3 shots) then beat her defender with a dribble to her right, and surprised LIU goalkeeper Keely Thomas with an absolute laser to the upper right-corner of the net from 10-yards out.
 
Retriever junior goalkeeper Abbey Cowles continued her strong play as she made several outstanding saves to preserve the victory.
 
Cowles denied the Sharks from the potential equalizer with 37:41 left as she made a diving save to her right from point blank range after Taylor Curcio was able to get free just yards from the near post.
 
LIU had their best opportunity of the game with 7:45 remaining as Kira Adkins sent a dangerous half-volley toward the upper center of the net just after a free kick, however, Cowles leaped and was able to deflect the ball off the crossbar. Cowles was then able to save a header by Gina Proviano after she collected the rebound.
 
"I'm proud of how we willed ourselves to the win," stated UMBC head coach Rick Stainton. "It was great to get Meghan McKye on the scoresheet as she had been working very hard to put herself in position to take quality chances. Her efforts were rewarded today!"
 
LIU held a 17-13 advantage in shots and attempted six corners against UMBC's three. Both goalies made six saves.
 
"Our center backs did a great job of neutralizing an attacking threat and embraced the challenge," Stainton added. "It was great to see them battle all throughout. We continue to make progress and develop. Momentum is building for further success."
 
The Retrievers will travel to local rival Towson this Thursday at 6:00 p.m.