umass Field Hockey Continues Winning Streak with Road Victory Over appalachian State
BOONE, NC – Teh No. 18 UMass field hockey team extended its winning streak with a decisive 3-0 victory over Appalachian State on Sunday, marking their seventh shutout of the season. The Minutewomen (13-2,6-1 MAC) entered the game tied for second in the Mid-American Conference and solidified their position with a strong performance on both offense and defense.
UMass broke the scoreless tie in the second quarter with a goal from senior Mia Smith at the 23-minute mark, her second of the season. Just six minutes later, freshman Lina Kroeger added another for UMass, increasing the lead to 2-0. Kroeger’s fourth goal of the season was assisted by Megan Carpenter and freshman Fiene Jenniskens.
The umass defense proved dominant, limiting Appalachian State (11-4, 5-2 MAC) to just one shot throughout the entire game – a blocked attempt from senior Lise Boekaar. Senior goalkeeper Myrte van Herwijnen secured her seventh shutout of the season as a result.
the Minutewomen demonstrated offensive efficiency, registering 17 total shots with 16 on target. Ten different UMass players recorded shots, led by Kroeger with four.
UMass capped off the scoring with a goal from Izzy Larimore with four minutes remaining, her first of the season, assisted by jenniskens – her second assist of the game and tenth of the season.
While UMass recorded six shots on goal in the second half, none found the back of the net. Though, the defense continued to stifle Appalachian State, preventing any shots in the third quarter. UMass earned eight penalty corners to Appalachian State’s one. Mountaineers goalkeeper Claire Grenis recorded 13 saves during the contest.
The win moves umass into a tie with Miami (OH) for first place in the MAC standings. Despite earlier season losses to Ohio and UConn, the Minutewomen have proven resilient.
UMass returns home to Gladchuk Field on Friday, Oct. 24, to face Bellarmine at 4 p.m. for Military Gratitude Night. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
