Field hockey defeats Wheaton

In non-conference action on Wednesday, the Cardinals won their third consecutive road game as they defeated the Wheaton Lyons by a score of 3-2.

The offensive frenzy that characterized the first half began when Wheaton’s Shea Clarke scored seven minutes into the game, putting the Lyons up 1-0. Her goal would be just the first of a combined 30 shots taken during the first half alone.

The Cardinals wasted no time in responding, as just 46 seconds later Amanda Nickels ’08 scored off of her own rebound to knot the game at 1-1. As Wesleyan’s offensive onslaught continued Molly Adams ’08 added another goal, connecting off of an assist from Hailey Sarage ’09 to give the Cardinals the lead with twelve minutes remaining in the half. Less than two minutes later, the Lyons reciprocated, tying the score at 2-2. The stalemate proved fleeting, however, as just 56 seconds later Adams again found the back of the net, this time assisted by Maddie Rottman ’08. All five goals had been recorded in just 19 minutes, a testament to the game’s frenetic early pace.

This one-goal cushion would suffice for the Cardinals, as neither team scored again for the duration of the game. The final 45 minutes saw an outstanding defensive effort from the Wesleyan squad, whose goalkeeper Caitlin Kelly ’07 managed 13 saves on the day.

Wednesday’s victory brought the Cardinals’ record to 3-2 on the season. On Saturday the team will look to improve its NESCAC standing as it faces Connecticut College in its fourth road game of the season. Last season the Cardinals defeated the Camels by a score of 3-0.