Aug. 30, 2005
FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- The Fairfield University field hockey team opened the home portion of its 2005 season this afternoon, but came up one goal short in a 2-1 loss to the University of Maine at University Field.
Defense kept things in check for most of the first half, as neither team had many scoring opportunities. The Black Bears finally put together a scoring chance when they were awarded a penalty corner 12 minutes into the game. Gina Legge set up the goal with a stop and a quick pass to Kasey Spencer, who one-timed a shot past Fairfield goaltender Elizabeth Thomas.
Maine improved on that lead with a goal 13 minutes into the second half. Katy LePage controlled a rebound off an intial shot from Joanna Fernandes, and backhanded a shot into the Fairfield goal.
The Stags made things interesting with 13-plus minutes remaining in regulation. Fairfield was awarded a penalty corner, which was initiated by Kelly Rath. Briana Keene secured a loose ball and beat Maine goaltender Rebecca Giroux to the lower corner.
The home team had several more opportunities, but Giroux was equal to the task each time. The Stags outshot the Bears by a 7-4 count in the second half, with Giroux making five saves.
Fairfield returns to action this weekend when it hosts Northwestern University on September 3 at noon. The Stags will also host St. Joesph's University on September 4 at noon.
