KEENE, NH - The Keene State field hockey team began their season in dramatic fashion as Brittney Cardente scored the game-winning goal in the final minute for a 2-1 victory over University of New England.

It was the Nor'easters who opened the scoring, getting on the board at the 19:33 mark when Erin Bibber took a Nicole Matarozzo pass and sent it past the KSC keeper.

The Owls evened the score in the 27th minute when Kayla Renaud beat the goalie on a pass from Cardente for the first goal of the season.

Tied at the half, KSC had the clear advantage in shots, 16-2 and corners 7-1.

The Owls had an opportunity with 10 minutes remaining when Melissa Habelow sent a shot from the top of the circle just wide. Minutes later, UNE was on the attack when Keene State goalie Shauna Whittemore made an outstanding slide tackle save to keep the score tied.

With under a minute left in the contest, the Owls were awarded a corner when Haylie Dolan dribbled into the circle and connected with Cardente for the game-winner.

Smith was outstanding in goal for the Nor'easters as she kept her team in the game making 15 saves.

Whittemore earned the win with the three save effort.

Cardente recorded her first career goal and assist in this contest.

KSC will be back in action on Tuesday night, traveling to Castleton in Vermont for a 7 pm start. UNE hosts Husson on Wednesday at 6 pm.