The last time the US and Chile met, the US came out on the short end, after a last minute goal. The US was expecting a tough game as Chile came into the match after having defeating Peru 13-0 on Monday. But it was a grueling come from behind effort by the US, after giving up goals in the 12th minute in the first quarter and in the 6th minute of second half. As the saying goes 2-0 may be the most dangerous score in field hockey.
The officials came armed with multiple cards of green and yellow. The US received 3 greens in the first half with Erin Matson collecting two alone, one as time ended in the first half. Chile also received their share of yellows. The last yellow card was given to US player Moyer with three minutes left in game and the US up by two goals.
Penalty corners played a key role in the game as Chile earned their two goals on penalty corners at the 12 minute mark and the second half on a reverse deflection in the 36th minute. However the US was not to be denied today, and they got into gear scoring their first goal in the 49th off a nifty play. Matson hit a long hit to Ulmstead who passed to Gonzales back to Ulmstead deflected off of Manley to Matson for the first goal for US of the match.
One minute later Lauren Manley responded with a goal of her own to tie the game at 2 with 10 minutes left. At 53 minutes Ali Froede scored on another corner that deflected off a Chilean defender to make it 3-2. Kathleen Sharkey got a fourth goal for the US as it again hits a Chilean defender making it 4-2 in the 56th minute,
There was no relaxation as Moyer received a 5 minute yellow as the US defense held strong for the last 3 minutes.
The US will play Peru in the last game of their pool and then it will be crossovers. The team showed their mettle and determination today and represented the US with distinction!! Go USA
This game is a lesson for our players at every level. Persistence, and hard work can earn you wins. This was a key win and our team played like the champions!! Head Coach Janneke Schoopman admitted the team was not playing to their full potential as they had difficulty connecting in the first half but she was pleased to see the team bring some “attitude” to the fourth quarter. Indeed they did!!! Four goals worth!!!
Check back later and I will post more pictures ! It’s a shame there was no live stream. I know US field hockey tried hard and even offered to bring their own cameras etc, but the company that bought the rights wouldn’t allow it. Hopefully, they will show at least the semi-final and final games for us to watch.
Lafayette College Field Hockey 