Field Hockey: No. 5 Iowa shuts out Terriers 4-0

By India Clarke

Facing the fifth-ranked team in the nation so early in the season was always going to be a test for the Terriers (1-2, 0-0 PL), and they suffered a 4-0 loss against the No. 5 University of Iowa (2-1) Friday afternoon.

After a difficult first half, BU vastly improved its second-half performance, but could not overcome the 2-0 deficit.

Iowa started strong, maintaining possession throughout the first quarter. However, the Terriers looked equally solid defensively, keeping the score line at 0-0, with no shots on target for either team.

BU continued their strong defensive performance into the second quarter, but Iowa’s high press and inventive attacking plays began to get the best of the Terriers. Defensive mistakes from BU coupled with creative offense from Iowa led to the first half ending 2-0 in favor of the Hawkeyes. The two goals were scored by Iowa’s Alex Wesneski and Sofie Stribos, respectively, both connecting on crosses from the corners.

The Terriers tried to move the ball out of their half, which was increasingly difficult with the high press of Iowa. BU keeper Caroline Kelly was essential in keeping the score line down with some crucial saves throughout the match.

The second half gave way to more positives for BU, creating goal opportunities they lacked in the first half of the match. They earned penalty corners, but they were unable to convert.

Although there were noticeable improvements in the second half, a defensive mistake from the Terriers resulted in the Hawkeyes’ Annika Herbine increasing the lead to 3-0 at 42:18. BU continued to have more chances in the fourth quarter, but the lead that Iowa had already created, as well as secure play from their defenders, tightened their grasp on the game.

Wesneski scored again with under 10 minutes left to seal the win. Although the Terriers had been disciplined in defense throughout the game, it was not enough to combat Iowa’s threatening offensive play.

BU faces Saint Louis today at 2 p.m. EST in Iowa City.