Field Hockey: Terriers defeated 3-0 by UNH

Featured image by Elyse Paugh

By Hannah Connors

The University of New Hampshire Wildcats (7-8, 3-1 America East) shut out the Boston University Terriers (6-8, 3-2 PL) 3-0 on Sunday afternoon in Durham, New Hampshire.

The game opened with weak offensive possessions from both teams. Neither the Wildcats nor the Terriers could get any shots within the first ten minutes of play. This streak was broken when BU’s Martu Coulo took a shot on net, which was saved by goalkeeper Abby Johnson.

This first shot opened up more offensive opportunities for the Terriers, but they could not capitalize.

Despite some back and forth between the teams, BU largely held off UNH’s offense, allowing only one shot on net by forward Nicole Poulakis at the end of the quarter.

Unfortunately, the second frame was a different story for the Terriers.

During the early stages of the second quarter, the Wildcats adopted an assertive offensive playing style.

Two minutes into the second quarter, Brecken Calcari intercepted a pass and found Tasmin Cookman who beat goalkeeper Kate Thomason.

UNH found their rhythm, netting their second goal less than three minutes later.

Kathelijne Knuttel capitalized off a rebound in front, scoring her 13th of the season.

Despite the Terriers’ weak defensive play throughout the second quarter, Thomason exhibited strong goaltending, making a total of five saves and keeping BU within the game.

Seeking revenge in the second half, the Terriers were eager to get on the scoreboard. Two minutes into the quarter, Tess Csejka took two shots, but both were saved by goaltender Johnson.

BU struggled all together throughout the rest of the quarter.

Leading the team in goals and points, Payton Anderson sought a last-ditch effort to get the Terriers within one, but Johnson remained unbeatable.

In the final frame, the Wildcats were eager to secure their lead, and they did just that.

One minute into the last quarter, Knuttel scored her second goal of the day, giving UNH a cushiony 3-0 lead.

With poor offensive possession and only one shot throughout the fourth quarter, the Terriers were unable to erase the deficit they had dug themselves into.

The Wildcats’ robust defensive coverage of star-studded BU players like Anderson led the Terriers to look for opportunities from players that just weren’t there, ultimately costing them the game.

BU will look to bounce back this Friday, Oct. 25th, as they prepare to take on Lafayette University. This Patriot League contest is set to begin at 6 p.m. at Rappolt Field and will be available to stream live on ESPN+.