Field Hockey: Weekend Preview 9-30

By Claire Smieszny

After a disappointing result last weekend, Boston University field hockey (3-5, 1-1 PL) is looking to improve their record with home matchups against the Bucknell University Bison (5-5, 1-1 PL) and the Northeastern University Huskies (4-5). 

The Terriers hope to get back in the win column after dropping both games this past weekend, losing to Lehigh  1-0 and Monmouth 4-0. BU looks specifically to build on their Patriot League play as they face the Bison on Saturday. After starting off conference play with a strong 4-0 win against the Holy Cross Crusaders last weekend, the Terriers were edged out by Lehigh. 

Sophomore forward Caroline O’Brien gave BU its best chance with a stolen pass in Lehigh’s zone. O’Brien and junior back Payton Anderson were standouts up front, both earning the Terriers four shots. However, goalkeeping determined the game in the end, with junior goalkeeper Jenny Canoni earning a shutout for Lehigh. 

The Bison are coming into Saturday’s game with a matching 1-1 PL record — fresh off a 3-2 double overtime win against Holy Cross. While they look to keep their momentum in the conference, BU is working to gain it back.

Junior forward Lily Neilson is a player to look out for, as she leads Bucknell with 33 shots on goal and 14 points on the season. BU’s senior goalkeeper Kate Thomason will look to continue her impressive play this season, boasting a 2.34 goals against average. 

On Sunday, the Terriers will matchup against a Boston area rival in the Huskies. Northeastern is coming off of a rough four-game losing streak and will be on the hunt for a win. With both teams in similar positions early in the season, this competition will be an exciting one. 

Northeastern grad student middle/back Lauren Rowe is the player to watch as she makes her collegiate comeback. After missing last year due to injury, Rowe is off to a hot start with a team-leading 16 points in just nine games. 

BU’s defensive strength will be tested during this contest and will require solid performances from the Terriers. Senior middle/back Rachel Borzymowski will be one to look out for, earning BU’s 2022 Woman of the Year award and All-Patriot League second team honors last season. 

Both home games are scheduled for 1 p.m. at New Balance Field and will be available for streaming on ESPN+.