The entire Lafayette team saw action in a modified game with the St. Joseph’s Hawks today. The defense, managed to contain a good Hawk offense early on as Coach Jennifer Stone used her entire squad in critical situations. In a comment after the game she expressed pleasure on how her team responded to a Hawk team that averaged 3 goals per game last year. ” A lot of these players stepped up into situations they have not seen before.” Defender Rachel Bird is still nursing sore shins and midfielder Kristen Taylor was awaiting evaluation for the same malady. But the younger players responded by shutting down the Hawks all-american forward, as much of the earlier action was in the St. Joseph’s offensive end.
The game was played in four fifteen minute quarters with the clock stopping for penalty corners. As the game wore on the leopards began to find their offensive connections to teammates. Goals in the regular game were scored by Rosie Shanks in front of the goal in the middle of scrum, while Caroline Turnbull found the corner of the goal in a beautiful shot late in the game. Turnbull had several other fine offensive plays as success seemed to add to her confidence.
To my eyes there was a lot to be pleased with by the younger players, Adriana Pero showed some real grit and strength on defense, and Liza Welch let her presence be known with several good aggressive plays. Sam DiMaio was able to get clear near the goal and was near the action on numerous breaks into the offensive side of the field. Rosa Jonckheer got off several hard shots as her play is returning to last years form that earned her rookie of the week honors in the Patriot League.
Jenn Delongis and Ana Buzzard took advantage of their opportunities, while Theresa Delahanty was very active on defense and the seven aside scrimmage. Both goalies did well in the cage. Defensive corners looked a little rough from the team perspective, as the goalies responded with several good saves.
The sum it up ,it was a productive afternoon as the Leopards were beginning to show the depth that can be so valuable in fall. Next up on Saturday will be a day long tournament at Penn.
Lafayette College Field Hockey 