Danbury, CT – Sophomore Ariana Hernandez scored three goals in an eight-minute span to lead the University of Mount Saint Vincent to a 3-1 victory over Western Connecticut State University on Wednesday evening at the Westside Athletic Complex.
After a scoreless first half, Hernandez broke through just 59 seconds into the second period, giving the Dolphins a 1-0 lead. She struck again just over a minute later, finishing a pass from freshman Kiana Navarette to double the advantage.
Hernandez, the reigning Skyline Conference Rookie of the Year, completed her hat trick in the 54th minute, converting an assist from Michelle Zuniga to give UMSV a commanding 3-0 lead.
WestConn answered in the 65th minute, but the Dolphins' defense held firm the rest of the way to secure the road victory.
Hernandez led the offensive effort with seven shots, including five on goal. In goal, Kaitlyn Grady made six saves to help preserve the win.
UMSV finished with a 19-13 advantage in shots and put 13 attempts on target compared to seven for the Wolves. Both teams recorded four corner kicks.
The Dolphins now sit at 9-3-3 overall and remained unbeaten in Skyline Conference play at 7-0-3. They're set to close out the regular season on Saturday at home against Maritime.
