Field Hockey: Terriers season comes to a close in Patriot League Semifinal loss

By Jose Rodriguez

The Boston University Terriers (6-11, 3-3 PL) season came to an end in a 1-0 Patriot League Semifinal loss to top-seeded American University Eagles (12-7, 6-0 PL) at Jacobs Recreational Complex in Washington, D.C.

In the opening period of the game, both teams engaged in a fierce back-and-forth contest, each striving for control of their opponent’s zone. At the 9:26 mark, BU goaltender Kate Thomason showcased her reflexes, denying a shot from AU’s Ashley Huddleston as she attempted to find the back of the net.

The Terriers seemed to gain momentum just a couple of minutes later. At 11:26, Nicole Lauro made a determined attempt to score, but her shot veered wide of the goal, leaving the game still scoreless. The Eagles, not to be outdone, earned a penalty corner at the 11:51 mark, presenting them with a prime opportunity to take the lead.

However, Federica Turina Dellamaggiore’s strike sailed wide, and both teams failed to capitalize on their respective chances.

As the second period commenced, BU came out with renewed energy. At 16:50, Tegan Poerio took the penalty corner, but Payton Anderson’s shot was swiftly blocked, keeping both teams in search of the go-ahead goal.

AU dominated the play for a considerable stretch during the second frame, effectively controlling the Terriers’ zone. Despite their sustained pressure and a slew of opportunities, they could not convert any of their chances into goals.

By the end of the first half, the Eagles had outshot BU 11 to 4, demonstrating their offensive capabilities.

As the clock wound down in the third frame, AU made a strong push, unleashing three consecutive shots on goal, yet the ball stubbornly refused to cross the line. In a bid to seize scoring opportunities, Olivia Morraye was awarded another penalty corner, but a well-timed block from Thomason thwarted their efforts, bringing the period to a close.

After a grueling 45 minutes of play, the score remained 0-0.

However, that changed as Sophie Willemse broke the stalemate, netting her third goal of the season with just over eight minutes remaining in regulation. Despite the Terriers’ determined attempts to equalize in the final minutes, they ultimately faced a narrow defeat, finishing the game at 1-0.

Throughout the game, the Eagles dominated in shots, outpacing BU 21 to 8. Terriers’ goalkeeper Thomason saved five of the six shots fired at her, while Bryn Underwood saved all four attempts against her.

BU finished the 2024 season with 27 goals and 164 shots. Anderson finished her final season with a team-leading 21 points in 984 minutes played.

The Terriers will look to bounce back next year in the 2025 season.