Matthew Hazlett/ The Towerlight

The Tigers were able to bring home their first win of the season, beating the UMBC Retrievers 11-8 Wednesday night on the road.

Towson (1-2) remained in control for most of the game, but was not able to secure more than a two-goal lead until less than five minutes remaining in the game.

The defense held UMBC (2-1) in check, giving the Retrievers their first loss of the season.

Towson’s defense recorded a combined eight ground balls, making sure the Retrievers couldn’t gain an advantage.

Head Coach Sonia LaMonica said she was happy for her team.

“It feels great to finally get that first of the year, especially against such a tough UMBC team,” she said. “It’s always nice to a get a win when playing an in-state rivalry, so I’m proud of our girls winning this one.”

Senior midfielder Kelly Custer put up a star performance for the Tigers, scoring four goals in the game, marking her seventh of the year.

Sophomore attack Sarah Maloof continued her hot streak, scoring a goal and recording three assists, including a key assist to Custer to help seal a Tigers’ victory.

“I’m happy with the team and our fight today,” Maloof said. “It wasn’t our best game yet, that’s definitely coming up with more practice and stuff, but yeah, I think we did well. Now it’s time to get ready for Loyola on Saturday.”

Towson struggled the last two games with its clearing game. LaMonica praised her team for their constant improvement in the changes that were made to get the team its first win.

“We had to start the year by playing two top opponents in North Carolina and Georgetown, so I think that definitely set the bar high for us,” LaMonica said. “This was an in-state rivalry, which made our girls step up and work hard. Our clearing game had been a problem for us the last couple game, but it looked much better today. We haven’t made many changes in our game. I think we’re just continuing to build.”

The Tigers’ next game is the first home game of the season against Loyola on Saturday at 1 p.m.

LaMonica said the team was excited for its upcoming home opener.

“We’re always pumped for a rivalry and it’s even more exciting when the game is at your home field,” she said. “The girls are excited for this one and we’re just going to continue to build and work hard at practice.”