Despite outshooting their opponent 10-5, the Fairfield University field hockey team was defeated Friday, in a 1-0 heartbreaker against conference rival Siena (2-7). The Stags recorded six shots in the final five minutes of the game, but could not find the back of the net.
The loss marks Fairfield’s eleventh loss on the season, however, only the second defeat in conference play. Siena improves to 2-1 in the Northeast Conference.
“After a game like this, there are no excuses,” said Coach Jackie Kane. “They weren’t better; they just wanted it more than we did. We didn’t take advantage of our opportunities. We didn’t execute when we needed to.”
Fairfield controlled the ball well in the first half of the game, gaining the offensive advantage in shots, 4-2. Four corners occurred in the last six minutes, three for the Stags, but no goals were scored.
The Saints came out hot as the second half began, driving the ball deep into Fairfield territory. Less than four minutes had elapsed when freshman Andrea Caso sent a pass to the front of the net for junior Tracy Baldwin who found the back of the net, beating goaltender Lauren Callahan for the score.
Fairfield had two corner opportunities in the second half, one with eight minutes remaining, then again a minute and a half later. Shots by Stags’ forwards Caitlin Quinn and Chelsea Hicks were deflected by Saints goaltender, sophomore Jennifer Tesak.
Down but not out, Fairfield applied offensive pressure for the last five minutes of the game but to no avail. The Stags push was not enough to best Tesak, who swatted away four shots in the half and seven overall.
The Stags split time in the net between junior Liz Thomas and junior Lauren Callahan both stopping two shots a piece. “The decision to change goalies was a pre-game decision. I don’t think it affected the outcome of the game,” said Kane.
“It’s an upsetting loss,” said Callahan. “Siena was in the same boat we were, coming into the game needing a win. We are a group of hard working individuals; we just need to bring it together as a team.
The Stags play again Sunday, October 8 at 1 p.m. on the grass field of Monmouth University. Monmouth is also 0-2 in the NEC with an overall record of 2-9. Siena returns to action Sunday against Quinnipiac University (5-6).
“Field hockey is a different game when played on grass, but I think we are ready for a win,” said junior Lauren Keith.
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