VESTAL, N.Y. - Binghamton women's soccer opens its 2017 season by hosting St. Bonaventure at 7 p.m. Friday at the Bearcats Sports Complex. 

The Bearcats open up their second season under Coach Bhattacharjee and the roster is comprised of 70 percent first- or second-year players.

Anchored by senior keeper Katie Hatziyianis, a sturdy defense returns after keeping 14 opponents to one goal or less last season. Reversing last fall's trend of 1-0 losses (six such defeats) will be the primary focus. Up front, look for newcomers Kayla Saager and Genna Michitti to spark the attack. Workhorse Ryan Reilly and fellow sophomore starters Lauren Spinnato, Sam O'Malley and Carly Barnett will benefit from big minutes during their freshman campaigns. Talented defender and senior tri-captain Emma Maslin returns to the lineup after injuries have robbed her of much of her collegiate career. Ball winner Patty Loonie patrols center midfield.

The Bearcats play four of their first five games at home.  

The Bonnies are coming off a 4-14-1 season in the rugged Atlantic 10. They only lost two players to graduation and return top scorers Danielle Vis ( 4 goals, 10 pts.) and Sydney Cerza (3 goals, 7 pts.). Sophomore keeper Lauren Malcolm returns after starting all 19 games as a freshman. She had a 1.86 goals against average with two shutouts.

St. Bonaventure leads the all-time series against Binghamton, 4-3. Last August in Olean, the teams played to a 1-1 overtime draw. Two years ago in Vestal, BU prevailed 2-1.