The Bobcats field hockey team was able to win a close game Sunday afternoon, beating the Siena Saints today at the Quinnipiac Field Hockey Turf Complex by a final score of 2-1.
About midway into the first half, Bonnie Shea scored the first goal of the game off a corner, assisted by Ann Marie Mangano. Quinnipiac maintained the 1-0 lead through the rest of the first half.
The Bobcats outshot the Saints 13-4 in the first half and goalkeeper Jenna Grossman was forced to make just two saves.
Early in the second half Siena sophomore Kristen McGorty received a pass from teammate Anne Linley, and slipped a shot by Grossman from about 10 feet away, tying it up at one apiece.
With a little over 10 minutes remaining, Jennifer Kinchla scored her first goal of the year, giving the Bobcats a 2-1 lead. The winning goal was scored off a rebound, assisted by Lauren Hartnett.
Siena was given a chance to tie it back up when the Saints’ Emily Winslow was given a penalty shot. The shot towards the lower left corner was saved by Grossman, her 5th save of the game.
The game ended at 2-1, improving the Bobcats to 4-14 overall and 2-4 in the NEC. Siena dropped to 2-11 overall and 1-6 in conference play.
Head coach Becca Kohli said the team is playing a lot looser these days.
“Now that we’re not going to be playing in playoffs, the pressure is off and we’re seeing a lot of good hockey being played.”
Kohli was pleased with the teams 18 shots on goal in the game, compared to six for the Saints.
Lauren Hartnett, Megan McCreedy and Megan Sciascia all played a strong game in midfield and helped lead the Bobcats to victory.
“We’re stepping into the off season on a positive note” Kohli said.
The Bobcats will return to action this Friday afternoon when they host Monmouth at 3 p.m. at the Quinnipiac Field Hockey Turf Complex.
The team will also celebrate Senior Night on Friday. Four seniors will play their final home game at Quinnipiac.
Seniors Ann Marie Mangano, Megan Dahle, Shannon Whittemore and Jennifer Kinchla will all conclude their careers with the Bobcats on Friday.
A ceremony will be held prior to the game to bid farewell to the four seniors.
