Head coach Ray Leone referenced earlier in the week that Maryland women’s soccer had to play its best against ninth-ranked Rutgers, but even if it did, it would have problems limiting the Scarlet Knights’ offense.
In the ninth minute, forward Riley Tiernan was speeding into Maryland’s defensive third and approaching the 18-yard box. Tiernan let loose a beautiful through ball to forward/midfielder Amirah Ali. The Portland Thorns FC’s third round draft pick in January only needed one touch as she scooted behind the Maryland defense, striking one off Maryland goalkeeper Liz Brucia and into the left side of the net to give Rutgers a 1-0 lead.