Box Score The No. 8 American University field hockey team lost for a second time in as many days Sunday, falling to Northwestern 2-1 in the Terrapin Invitational.
"I'm proud of our effort today," commented Head Coach Steve Jennings. "We dominated the vast majority of the game but needed to be more clinical in our finishing. I'm confident the team will use this to help us be better for next weekend where we look to get back on the right track against Louisville."
Northwestern (4-2) took an early lead when Maria Kovalchuk received a pass from Regan Mooney and beat Stephanie Burry to the far post in the 12th minute. American (2-3) rebounded and began pressuring the Wildcats' cage, eventually breaking through in the 22nd minute off the stick of Kati Rothenhoefer to even the score at one. The goal was setup by classmate Grace Wilson, who sent a pass into the shell from outside the 25-meter line where Rothenhoefer was waiting for the deflection.
Despite American holding a 6-2 advantage in shots, the teams would head into the intermission tied 1-1.
The Eagles continued to be the aggressor in the second half, attempting three shots on goal through the first 10 minutes. Northwestern's defense held strong, however, and the Wildcats would take a 2-1 lead in the 47th minute off a penalty corner. Chelsea Armstrong was credited with the goal, converting off a straight shot from the top of the circle.
American looked poised to make a second comeback and earned several quality scoring chances down the stretch. The Northwestern defense was up to the task, though, and negated six shot attempts by the Eagles over the final 20-plus minutes to hold on for the win.
Rothenhoefer's goal was the first of her career while Wilson is now tied for the team lead with two assists.
American outshot Northwestern 17-5 on the day and held a 5-4 edge in penalty corners. Gina Hofmann led the team with six shots, including two on goal, while Jaclyn Anspach, Melissa Casale and Shelly Montgomery each recorded two.
The Eagles will return to action on Sunday, September 18 when they host Louisville at Jacobs Field live on Eagles Vision TV. Game time is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
