Sunday will be the second game in the Patriot League abbreviated covid schedule for both squads. However, Boston University had a bye week last week, while Lafayette met Lehigh for an opening loss. The game is important for both squads to make the playoffs. Lafayette is perhaps the most difficult game on the Terriers schedule and Lafayette needs to get into the win column. Two weeks ago Boston survived a 2-1 game with Holy Cross. Boston had 13 shots with 8 on goal against Crusaders’ 11 shots with 5 on goal. Boston’s second year goalkeeper, Caroline Kelly, came up with 4 saves. They were able to earn seven corners using one in the first quarter to allow their star player Kathryn Sheer to score the first goal. After Holy Cross scored to tie the game, there were 2 following quarters that resulted in goose eggs for both teams. Rebecca James, a terrier senior, found the back of the net that was be the game winner late in the fourth quarter.
Boston used 16 players in the game and Lafayette used 15 in last Sunday’s game while generating 7 shots ( 2 on goal). They also had 6 corners most of which occurred in the final quarter.
Last year Lafayette won in a hard fought defense featured match, that went to overtime. Lafayette will need to show more offense to get beyond Boston’s sophomore goal keeper Caroline Kelly. Boston lost some important offensive contributors last year and my observations of the Holy Cross game, was like most teams this year the offense has not yet come together. If Lafayette can crank up their offensive production it could be good day for the Leopards.
Fan Attendance Was A Success Last Weekend
Lafayette allowed Lafayette parents, alumni and students to attend outdoor matches. It appears it was a success, as the number of new covid cases this week was actually one of the smallest increases of the semester. Since last weekend, both Lehigh and Bucknell have modified their fan attendance rules. Proposed this week, tickets will be issued ( free of course) to the same eligible fans. Visiting teams will not be allowed fans. Here’s hoping that other PL schools are watching and reduce their draconian rules.
Since it was part of the new protocols, I wonder if Boston will be busing down for the 1 pm face off, or will they be staying overnight….does anyone know!!!??
Lafayette College Field Hockey 