AMHERST - The University of Massachusetts field hockey team couldn't snap its seven-game losing streak against its in-state rival, but despite the 1-0 loss to No. 9-ranked Boston College Friday, the Minutewomen left their season opener encouraged.

Except for the first and last five minutes of the game, BC outshot and out-possessed the Minutewomen, but the UMass defense, backed by goalie Alesha Widdall, was able to limit the quality of the Eagles scoring chances.

"It was a very promising start. Alesha and our defense played exceptionally well," UMass coach Justine Sowry said. "Overall it was a good first effort for us and it was something for us to build upon."

With under five minutes left BC mounted a drive into the UMass circle, while Widdall charged out to kick the ball away, Jaime Bourazeris was called for an intentional infraction in the circle behind the play giving the Eagles a penalty stroke.

BC senior Emily Kozniuk fired low and to Widdall's right, just out of the diving goalie's reach to put the visitors up 1-0 with 4:30 remaining.

The deficit forced the Minutewomen to attack in an attempt to produce the equalizer.

They were able to create chances. Katie Kelly's shot was thwarted with 2:24 remaining. UMass, which hadn't had a penalty corner since the first five minutes of the game, earned two in the last three minutes. On the first, the Minutewomen never got a shot off as they couldn't set the ball. On the second, which came with 15 seconds left, Makaela Potts' shot went wide of the net as BC held on.

"I thought we played well," Bourazeris said.. "We kept them out of our zone and we were making some amazing tackles today. To stay with BC that long makes us very hopeful for the rest of the season."

Eagle goalkeeper Kristine Stigas made fives saves, while Widdall stopped four shots for UMass (0-1).

Both teams play Indiana next. BC faces the No. 17-ranked Hoosiers Saturday at 2 p.m. at Garber Field, while the Minutewomen host them at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The game showcased the considerable potential of new Minutewoman defender Thando Zono. The junior from South Africa made an impact defensively and was a potential hitter for UMass on penalty corners.

"She has a skill set and likes to get involved," Sowry said. "Her contributions today were outstanding."

Junior midfielder Nicole Panciocco injured her leg early in the first half and did not return to action. She watched the second half on crutches. Her status going forward was unknown.

Several freshmen saw action in their first collegiate game. Hannah Prince started for UMass on defense, while Northampton product Mika Black, Alexa Sikals, Molly MacDonnell, Mel Sutherland and Lindsay Bowman all played.

Matt Vautour can be reached at mvautour@gazettenet.com.