NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – The Salisbury University women's soccer team suffered a 2-0 setback to host Christopher Newport University on Wednesday evening through a driving rain that resulted in numerous turnovers and a struggle by each team to maintain possession for long periods of time.

The Sea Gulls (3-7, 2-1 Capital Athletic Conference) got off to a strong start in the contest as junior forward Sarah Jessilonis fired a shot on frame in the game's fourth minute, but was saved by CNU goalkeeper Meghan Gumbs. Salisbury would fire off the next two shots before Christopher Newport (5-4-1) would tally its first shot of the contest in the 12th minute.

In the 16th minute, SU had a big opportunity as it earned a penalty kick. Sophomore forward Sarah Pfundstein stepped up to take the penalty kick, but was promptly saved by Gumbs. The Sea Gulls created another dangerous opportunity in the 38th minute as Jessilonis' shot rocketed off the cross bar. In the first stanza, Salisbury outshot Christopher Newport 8-4 and held a 4-0 corner kicks advantage.

The Captains broke through in the game's 50th minute as Sam Ciaravino slotted home a played ball from Julie Jennings. The Sea Gulls would not relent, pressuring the CNU defense, forcing their way toward the net, though they could not break through for the equalizer as the weather grew worse over the game's final 45 minutes. Christopher Newport added an insurance tally in the 88th minute, as Lauren Fleming scored off an assist from Emma O'Reilly. Despite the setback, the Sea Gulls outshot the Captains 19-10 held a 5-2 corner kicks advantage.  

SU sophomore goalkeeper Melissa Orgera played the entire contest and staved off two shots, while Gumbs finished with 10 saves for CNU.

The Sea Gulls will return to CAC action this Saturday, as they are set to play host to University of Mary Washington at 1 p.m. at the SU Soccer Complex.