The setting couldn’t have been better for the first game on the University of Maine women’s soccer team’s new $27.3 million New Balance Track and Field and Soccer Complex on Thursday night as the Black Bears tangled with Bryant University in an America East contest.

The game ended in a 1-1 draw.

It was a perfect night, weather-wise, with little or no breeze and comfortable temperatures.

And there was a large and enthusiastic crowd that was energized by the Portland professional soccer team Hearts of Pine support group which featured rhythmic drumming.

It was a memorable atmosphere with over 600 fans in and around the new stands overlooking the artificial turf field.

Defending two-time America East tournament champ UMaine is now 2-4-2 overall and 1-0-1 in conference play while Bryant i

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