BRISTOL, R.I.--The Salve Regina University field hockey team battled throughout 60 minutes of play Wednesday afternoon, cutting into a two-goal deficit in the third quarter before ultimately falling 2-1 to local rival Roger Williams University at Bayside Field.
The Seahawks (7-6, 1-4 NEWMAC) showcased their resilience against the Hawks (9-5, 2-1 CNE), with Deirdre McKiernan providing the second-half goal that brought Salve within one and kept the pressure on the Hawks.
After a scoreless opening quarter, Roger Williams broke through at 19:04 when the Hawks scored off an assist to give the the host a 1-0 advantage.
Salve continued to compete defensively, with goalkeeper Siany Ortez making several key saves to keep the Seahawks within striking distance. Ortez finished the contest with nine saves, helping Salve weather a strong offensive effort from Roger Williams.
The Hawks extended their lead to 2-0 at 39:31.Salve responded just 4:39 later. McKiernan found the back of the cage at 44:10, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and giving the Seahawks renewed momentum heading into the final quarter.
The Seahawks continued to search for the equalizer in the fourth, with Elliot Lund recording a shot attempt as Salve looked to capitalize on its late-game opportunities. Despite the push, Roger Williams held on to secure the 2-1 victory.
Defensively, Salve received a strong performance from Ortez, who recorded nine saves, while Grace Warnick contributed a defensive save to help limit the Hawks' scoring chances. Warnick also recorded a shot on goal, while Jordyn Pineau and Molly Kearney each put a shot on target.
Roger Williams finished with a 24-6 advantage in total shots and earned 13 penalty corners to Salve's two. Despite those numbers, the Seahawks continued to battle and created opportunities of their own, highlighted by McKiernan's third-quarter goal.
ON THE HORIZON:
Salve Regina will travel to play WPI in a NEWMAC game on the road on Saturday, October 17, at 12 p.m.
