PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – Senior Madeline Saccocio recorded a goal and an assist to lead the Plattsburgh State University women's soccer team to a 2-0 victory over Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), on Friday night at Field House Complex. With the win, the Cardinals improve to 3-0, while the Engineers drop 1-2.

The hosts wasted little time getting on the board just 27 seconds in. Saccocio (Schenectady, NY/Schalmont) sent a low cross from the left side of the 18 that was finished off by classmate Cait Gagen (East Syracuse, NY/East Syracuse-Minoa) for a 1-0 lead.

RPI responded with a pair of early chances, including header by senior Dali Alarian (Folsom, CA/Vista del Lago) that found the waiting arms of Plattsburgh junior goalie Nicole Gibson (Arkport, NY/Arkport).

Sophomore Alexis Castrellon (Conroe, TX/Battlefield) saw her 33rd minute attempt sail just wide of the left post, before senior Stephanie May's (Windham, NH/Windham) had her shot blocked, three minutes later.

Plattsburgh took its one-goal lead to the break, despite RPI leading in shots (8-7) and corners (5-2).

Sophomore Emily Kaplan (Smithtown, NY/Hauppauge) was tripped up going to goal early in the second half, but was not awarded a penalty.

The Cardinals quickly countered and doubled their advantage in the 59th minute, when Saccocio rolled home her fourth goal of the year after receiving a pass from freshman Ernesta McIntosh (Lincoln, VT/Mt. Abraham).

RPI was limited in its chances throughout much of the second half, with some longer attempts finding their way through.

Gibson finished with six saves for the Cardinals, while Rensselaer sophomore Joey Lyons (Harwood, MD/Southern) had two.

The Engineers are back in action on Sunday, when they host Sage at East Campus Stadium (4pm). Plattsburgh visits Clarkson tomorrow (4pm).