FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Fairfield University Soccer team fell to the Rider Broncs 4-1 in the season opener for both squads. Senior Gabby Diodati had the lone score for the Stags with a penalty kick in the 56th minute.
 
The two teams played to an even draw in the first 45 minutes, with the Stags controlling possession and out-shooting the Broncs 5-2. Brooke Hernon had the best chance for the Stags in the seventh minute but Rider's Ellie Sciancalepore was up for the challenge, registering the first of her five saves.
 
With just one minute left in the half, Rider had their best scoring chance as Makenzie Rodrigues got by the defense and fired a shot that Gena Pike was able to hit away for the first of her five stops.
 
All the offensive action came in the second half as Rider continued their momentum. Rodrigues would tally the first Rider goal as she unleashed a perfect shot from the top of the box into the upper right of the goal.
 
The Stags tried to answer right back, registering four shots over the next five minutes with plenty of chances inside the box. Lexi Lehan had the final of those attempts over that stretch and she was taken down inside the penalty area, allowing Diodati to tie the game with a penalty kick.
 
The Broncs would take over after that score, as Rodrigues answered back with the eventual game-winning goal three minutes later. Rider would add on in the 63rd and 70th minutes.
 
The Stags narrowly out-shot Rider 16-15 with Diodati, Caroline Kelly, and Elle Scott each leading the team with three attempts.
 
Fairfield, who has just five games left in the regular season, will travel to three-time defending MAAC Champions Monmouth on Tuesday, March 16 at 5pm.