Sept. 20, 2009
Final Stats
RICHMOND, Va. - A strong showing by both the Miami offense and defense helped the RedHawks to a big win against the Richmond Spiders 5-1. This marks the third-straight victory for Miami as they improve to 4-4 on the year.
The Spiders came out strong at the start of the first half, keeping the RedHawks on their heels for the opening minutes. After two consecutive saves by Miami goalie Abbey Huck, Richmond's Dani Pycroft scored at 4:03 off of a rebound to start off the scoring in the first period.
Miami quickly turned the pace of the game in its favor as it returned to the tough offensive presence it has shown so far this season. First to put Miami on the board was Maggie Marcum with the assist by Katie Brightwell 11:23 into the first period.
Marcum's goal was quickly followed by teammate and fellow forward Jackie Nguyen who scored her first goal of the season at 22:17 off a pass across the front of the goal from junior Christine Brightwell. Then with 30 seconds remaining in the opening period Katie Brightwell was able to capitalize on a penalty corner with an unassisted goal.
The RedHawks' defense held strong throughout the period, holding Richmond to its solitary goal.
"Abbey Huck has played outstanding in the past few games," said head coach Jill Reeve of Miami's defensive efforts. "She has been incredible in the cage. Kylie Landeros has also put together two top level games which has helped us to get these big wins."
The second half again showcased Miami's strength as they were able to shut out the Spiders while adding two more goals to its tally. The first came from senior Mary Hull at 55:36 when she scored unassisted off a rebound, and the second, and last came off the stick of junior Kate Snyder at 60:44.
"We played a conservative first half," commented Reeve. "Richmond came out emotional, strong and they're an athletic team. At halftime I asked the team to tap into their emotions and to overcome that fatigue from the long weekend, and the team said `let's do this'. They made the mental decision to get it done and in the second half everyone stepped up."
The RedHawks return home to face Indiana at home at the Miami Field Hockey Complex this Friday at 5 p.m.
