While conducting some research for this article I decided to watch last week’s game between Lehigh and Monmouth. Having read the statistics for Lehigh I prematurely came to the wrong conclusion. This game was hard fought by Lehigh, and not decided until the final seconds. Lehigh led for a bit, but much like Lafayette’s game with Syracuse had a crucial penalty stroke swinging the momentum to Monmouth’s favor.
Lehigh did not have the stats in their favor. They had less shots, less APC’s, and less time with the ball, as they battled a more athletic opponent. They were in the game until the very end, having taken advantage of the opportunities they did have in the 4-5 loss.
Number 15, Kiki Mes, their captain, is the real deal as she was involved in every important play on the field. The Leopards must mark her well. I am reminded of a game several years ago at Lehigh that was decided in overtime, breaking a long losing streak against Lafayette. There again, it was the less athletic team winning, in a game that on paper should have gone the other way. But the game is played on turf not paper.
The statistical trail points in favor of the Maroon. Lehigh comes in with a 1-4 record having lost all of their last four games. Lafayette is 3-3 with a strength of schedule ( according to hockey corner) higher than the Mountain Hawks, Lafayette takes more shots and scores more goals, 13/69 vs 8/58. However, as can be seen, their shot percentage is higher. Lehigh has more penalty corners 19/18 and they have more penalty strokes taken…… 3 vs 1.
In the goal, the Leopards have an advantage, Kate Burgess has a .667 save percentage, while Raffi Fragomeni has a .77 save percentage. Opponents seem to score the most against Lehigh in the first and third and fourth quarters. For Lafayette the fourth quarter has seen the most goals scored against them. Both teams have their opponents get more penalty corners.
So this fan believes Lafayette, having the stronger schedule, and deeper bench can leave the turf with a W. Getting off a strong start and getting more corners would be helpful. The Leopard’s must mark Mes well. Lehigh has the more difficult task of covering multiple goal scorers and if the Leopards start getting APC’s early, it could be trouble for the Mountain Hawks. The Leopards having an early lead, and taking control by the fourth quarter is a path to victory!!
However, this a rivalry game, on opponents turf…not to be taken lightly!!
Lafayette College Field Hockey 