NORTHAMPTON, Mass. —The Salve Regina University field hockey team battled through a challenging road matchup Friday night, falling to Smith College, 5-0, in NEWMAC action. Despite the result, the Seahawks continued to compete throughout all four quarters, with strong work in goal and a late push offensively.
Smith struck just 30 seconds into the contest, but Salve settled in defensively and kept the Pioneers from adding to their lead through the remainder of the opening half. Siany Ortez (Attleboro, Mass.) was strong in the cage, making seven saves in the second quarter alone as the Seahawks entered halftime trailing just 1-0.
Smith extended its lead early in the third quarter, but Ortez continued to keep the Seahawks within reach. She finished her 45 minutes in goal with an impressive 15 saves, helping Salve withstand a sustained Smith attack.
The Pioneers added two more goals late in the third quarter before taking a 5-0 advantage early in the fourth. Salve continued to battle, earning two penalty corners in the final quarter and generating another offensive opportunity from Jordyn Pineau (South Dennis, Mass.), whose shot went just wide.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP:
Final: Smith 2, Salve Regina 0
Records: Salve Regina ( NEWMAC), Smith ( NEWMAC)
NOTEWORTHY:
- The Seahawks earned both of their penalty corners in the fourth quarter, continuing to pressure Smith until the final whistle.
- Brynn Poole (Madison, Conn.) took over in goal for the fourth quarter and made three saves, giving the Seahawks a combined 18 saves on the night. Salve also held Smith scoreless for the final 12 minutes of the contest.
ON THE HORIZON:
On Wednesday, September 30, Salve Regina will travel to play Eastern Connecticut State University on the road at 4 p.m.
