GENEVA, N.Y. – The Lebanon Valley College field hockey team showed great fight throughout Sunday's non-conference matchup at William Smith College in a tough 4-0 defeat to the host Herons in the final game of the William Smith Classic.
The Dutchmen came out aggressive early, creating scoring opportunities in the opening quarter.
Jillian Tait tested the Herons' goalkeeper just over a minute into the contest, while
Claire Weidenhammer added a quality chance late in the first period. William Smith managed to break through midway through the opening frame and carried a 1-0 advantage into the second quarter.
LVC continued to compete throughout the first half, with goalkeeper
Ella Weidenhammer keeping the Dutchmen within striking distance. The senior made several big saves, including back-to-back stops in the closing minutes of the first quarter and another strong save on Leah Griffith early in the second. Despite the Dutchmen's defensive effort, William Smith added a pair of goals in the second quarter to take a 3-0 lead at halftime. Tait put a shot wide and
Claire Weidenhammer had another shot saved late in the second quarter.
The Dutchmen's defense stepped up in the third quarter, limiting scoring opportunities and making several critical plays in front of goal.
Danika Setlock recorded a defensive save to deny a William Smith scoring chance, while
Ella Weidenhammer continued her strong afternoon with multiple stops. Lebanon Valley also generated offensive pressure of its own, earning a penalty corner and getting shots from
Claire Weidenhammer and
Maggie McAteer as the visitors continued to push forward.
William Smith added its final goal early in the fourth quarter, but Lebanon Valley never stopped battling. The Dutchmen earned another penalty corner late in the game, and Tait fired a shot that was blocked as LVC continued to attack until the final whistle.
Inside the Box
- Ella Weidenhammer was outstanding between the pipes, making seven saves while facing constant pressure.
- Claire Weidenhammer led the offensive effort with a team-high three shots, including two shots on goal.
- Tait generated quality scoring chances with three shots, including a shot on goal.
- Setlock recorded a defensive save, denying a William Smith scoring opportunity in the third quarter.
Up Next
The Dutchmen will look to rebound from the first defeat of the season next Saturday, September 19, as they host Immaculata University on Arnold Field at 1 p.m.
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