NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. -- The University of Maine women's soccer team battled to a 1-1 tie with the Merrimack College Warriors on Thursday evening at Martone-Mejail Field.
 
The two New England squads battled to a scoreless first half, after kick-off was delayed 30 minutes due to the heat index on the field.
 
First Goal (Maine 1-0): 10 minutes into the second half, Maine was awarded a direct kick. From well beyond the box, Tiana Bucknor took the direct strike. The defender sent a rocket that found its way into the back of the net with ease. Bucknor's first goal as a Black Bear gave her squad a 1-0 lead early into the final 45:00.
 
Second Goal (1-1): With less than 10 minutes remaining in regulation, Ella Cormier tied the non-conference match-up at one goal apiece. It was also the first goal allowed by the Black Bears during the 2021 season.
 
As was the case in the first half, the two overtime periods were played to scoreless ties. At the end of 110 minutes, Maine earned a 1-1 tie with the Warriors of Merrimack College.
 
Maine held a 9-8 advantage in total shots on goal while trailing 2-5 in corner kicks.
 
Tian Bucknor scored her first career goal as a Black Bear in the tie, while Darby Dupuis made her collegiate debut. Hannah Niles made her first appearance of the 2021 season.
 
Kutzinski turned away a season high seven shots during regulation and overtime for her squad.
 
Next: The Black Bears are back on the pitch Sunday, August 29th at Bryant. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 pm.
 
-UMaine-