Baltimore — Loyola University Maryland held the edge in shots and corner kicks on Thursday night against Virginia Commenwealth University, but the Rams used a pair of goals to outlast the Greyhounds, 2-0, in a non-conference matchup. 

The Rams (1-2-2 overall) scored an early goal just 107 seconds into the match, to take the early 1-0 lead. Loyola's (3-1-1) defense responded strong throughout the remainder of the first half, as they held VCU to just one shot in the first half. The Greyhounds struggled to find rhythm on the offensive end of the field, as they were held to just two shots in the first half, as they trailed 1-0 entering halftime. 

Loyola's attack kept pressing in the second half, generating four more shots and some great corner kicks, finishing with a 6-0 advantage in corners. Savannah Manset nearly pulled the Greyhounds even in the 62nd minute, but her low strike was denied at the near post. Minutes later, Brigid McElderry tested Pongratz again, only for the keeper to come up with another stop.

The Greyhounds' defensive unit settled in after the early concession and limited VCU's chances until a late strike in the 82nd minute doubled the deficit.

Asma Merzougui led the team with three shots on the night, each coming on target. Manset had a pair of shots, while McElderry also had a shot. 

Loyola will have a nine-day break before their next game, as they will travel to Long Island to face Hofstra on September 6.