Photo Courtesy of UR Athletics
On Wednesday afternoon, UR field hockey, ranked 20th nationally clinched a spot in Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division III tournament by knocking off the unranked Misericordia University Cougars in a come-from-behind victory at home.
The ‘Jackets rallied to defeat the Cougars 2-1 after trailing 1-0 with 17 minutes remaining in the second half. The two UR goals were controlled by the tag team of junior Tiffany White assisting all-time leading goal scorer and senior captain Michelle Relin. Both goals scored were a result of penalty corners, and were scored within three minutes of one another. This victory leads the Yellowjackets (17-5) to their second NCAA Sweet 16 in school history.
The Cougars, with a 10-12 record, scored their first and only goal in the 53rd minute off of a rebound from senior Lindsay Hischak for her 15th goal of the season. Hischak’s teammate, sophomore Melanie Fry, sent the ball into the goalie’s circle and it was kicked and defended by the senior ‘Jacket goalie Tara Lamberti. Hischak was in the right place at the right time and was able to take the rebound and shovel the ball into the goal.
What gave the ‘Jackets the competitive advantage was their six penalty corners and 16 total shots taken on goal. Rein took seven of those shots, with teammates Sayaka Abe and Tiffany White taking one apiece, and junior Callie Fisher taking four herself. The game was fairly clean as neither team recorded any fouls or offsides.
Rochester’s first 12 shots all came in the first half as Abe almost sent one into the back of the net. Abe’s shot was saved at the last minute by Cougar line defender Samantha Partington. White also had an opportunity off of a penalty corner, but unfortunately her shot went wide. All initial frustration aside, the ‘Jackets were able to come through due to the performance of top-scorer Relin.
With this win, the Yellowjackets solidified their 11th win at home; this is the first time the ‘Jackets remained unbeaten at home since 1986.
UR will move on to face #7 ranked Salisbury University at Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pa. this Saturday.
Powell is a member of the class of 2018.
