In a battle of top-25 teams, it was the 12^th ranked Messiah Falcons who came out on top over #23 Misericordia University, 2-0, at Mangelsdorf Field, Saturday night.

Messiah outshot the Cougars, 14-12, including 6-5 in shots on goal, while corner kicks were even at three.

Alex Gallagher led the Cougars with four shots, including two on goal.

The first half was full of chances for both teams, but neither was able to find the back of the net before the break.

Messiah had a chance to take the lead in the 42^nd minute, but Alyssa Pojero made a diving save.

Misericordia had its best chance just before halftime when Jackie Stevens was able won a loose ball battle with the Falcons keeper, but her shot in the closing seconds went just wide of the right post.

In the second half, the Falcons scored in the 50^th minute to take the lead.

The Cougars earned a corner kick in the 55^th minute, but the Messiah was able to clear the threat.

Messiah doubled their lead in the 62^nd minute off a corner when Emily D'Amico shot a laser from the left side of the box into the right side of the net.

Misericordia earned to earn two more corner kicks but was unable to get past the Messiah defense and cut into its lead.

Pojero made four saves in goal for the Cougars.

Misericordia plays Virginia Wesleyan in Wilmington, Delaware, Tuesday at 5:00.