It was played as it should be, a rivalry game with consequences. A win for either team would give each a chance for post season play. It was a back and forth affair as each team played with intensity and skill worthy of the night. It also demonstrates the parity developing within the league as there are four teams still competing to play next week in the end of season league tournament.
It was senior night, as Lafayette’s four remarkable seniors made the game that much more memorable. All four were honored before the game with their parents and families and they walked on the field as competitors for the last time at Rappolt Field. Ami Turner, Amanda Magadan, Aliza Furneaux, and Katelyn Arnold received flowers and listened to their many accomplishments related to the assembled crowd. After the game they received presents and were honored by their teammates in a post season tailgate arranged by the Junior parents who outdid themselves in a memorable affair.
The leopards opened the game with an aggressive attacking scheme getting an early corner opportunity which was stymied by the Lehigh defense. Lehigh had not had a game for almost two weeks and I am sure had the Leopards thoroughly scouted. The half ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
The second half was a similar affair until Lehigh was to get a breakaway and as Arnold came out of the cage was called for stroke. (Arnold was the unsung hero of the game making several key saves during the contest). It resulted in a 1-0 lead for Lehigh. The lead wasn’t to last for long as the Leopards earned a corner. The insertion was delivered to Vandergeest who not seeing a shot, delivered to Magadan who stepped to the right and smacked a hard shot past the Lehigh goalie. The Leopards redoubled their efforts and several minutes later earned another corner, this time Lisa Vandergeest saw an opening and launched a rocket that was to be the game winner.
Lehigh was not giving up, but on this senior night Lafayette thwarted several attempts for Lehigh to get to the circle. Two to one was the end and the score reflects the efforts on both sides. Lafayette retreated to the tailgate to celebrate and waited for the outcome of the game between Bucknell and Colgate at 11 am on Saturday to learn of their fate tomorrow. In any case there will be a game with Temple on Sunday to end the regular season.
Lafayette College Field Hockey 