SMITHFIELD, R.I. - In a first-time encounter with Bryant University in Northeast Conference women's soccer action, Monmouth University recorded a 1-0 victory, paced by its ninth shutout of the season, and senior BrieAnne Nomejko's third goal of the year.

After a scoreless first half that saw both sides unleash three shots, Monmouth broke through with a goal by Nomejko at 56:52, off an assist from classmate Andrea Lopez. Nomejko, who increased her point total to a career-best eight, capitalized on Lopez's fourth helper of the year, which tied her for the team-lead.

"Tonight was a hard-fought game," said head coach Krissy Turner. "Also, to get another shutout is a terrific accomplishment."

With the victory, Monmouth improved to 8-3-1 overall and 3-0-1 in the NEC, while Bryant, the newest member of the league, fell to 2-8 overall, and 0-3 in league action.

Lia Fierro, who helped lead Monmouth to its ninth shutout on the season, the 24th in her career, made two saves for the Hawks. The nine shutouts for the junior set a new single-season record for Fierro, who is a two-time adidas/NEC Defensive Player of the Week in 2009. Lori Houlihan set the program record for single-season shutouts in 1995, with 15.

Monmouth, which has registered nine shutouts in its last 10 matches, while allowing just two goals over that span, was outshot by the Bulldogs 9-8.

Monmouth returns to action on Friday, October 16th, when the Hawks travel to Moon Township, Pennsylvania, to face Robert Morris University in Northeast Conference action at 3:30 p.m.