The AU Eagles field hockey team lost for the second straight time in a heartbreaking match against a resilient St. Joseph's squad. The No. 9 Eagles lost in overtime, 2-1, brining their record to 8-2.
The sun beat down upon the players and the field, adding to the already intense atmosphere of the game. As soon as St. Joe's took the field, one could tell they were not afraid of the Lady Eagles' nationally ranked prowess. St. Joe's was out for blood.
The game revolved around defense, especially in the first half. Neither the Eagles nor St. Joe's could maneuver the ball into the net. Eagle defenders Denise Infante and Carly Boyce helped anchor a solid defensive shield, protecting sophomore goalie Alyssa Poorman. Likewise, SJU's unyielding defense provided protection for their goalie, Rebecca Cunfer.
Only five minutes into the second half, the game began to change. SJU player Theresa Barbati tallied the ball through the net after it deflected off Poorman's shoe. The Eagles were not phased. They quickly answered a minute later when Infante assisted attacker Maggie Hall for a backhanded shot. After the goal, the game settled back into the defensive struggle it began with. St. Joe's had several chances to clinch the win in the second half, but thanks to a stellar performance by Poorman, the game was held at one apiece.
Only three minutes into overtime, Infante almost sent St. Joe's packing with a hard shot on goal. However, Cunfer quickly batted the ball away, giving St. Joe's another chance. Eight minutes into overtime, SJU teammate Brooke Henry crossed the ball to the other side of the field, where SJU freshman Jen Wrublesky capitalized on an open net. The game was over, and the Eagles left their home field in defeat for the second game in a row.
The Eagles look to bounce back on Sunday when they play at home against Colgate.
