Sept. 11, 2011

Final Stats

OXFORD, Ohio - The Miami University field hockey team put up a strong fight against Michigan State, but ultimately fell, 2-1, Sunday afternoon. The RedHawks fall to 1-5 on the season, while the Spartans improve to 2-4.

Michigan State, which defeated seventh-ranked Virginia on Saturday, struck first in the 21st minute of the first half. After receiving a penalty corner, Ali Helwig took a shot that Miami goalkeeper Sarah Mueller kicked away. The ball went right back to Helwig, who was then able to beat Mueller for the game's first goal.

The RedHawks struggled to get offensive opportunities early, but when they got one they capitalized. Olivia Miller stole the ball in midfield and had a breakaway in the 28th. Once she reached the circle, she beat the Spartan goalkeeper to the right side of the net to even the score at one. The lead did not last long, as Michigan State was able to score the tiebreaker in the 32nd minute to go into the half in front, 2-1.

Miami had its chances in the second half, outshooting the Spartans, 7-3 in the period. The RedHawks best opportunity came in the 65th minute when they got the goalkeeper out of position. Emily Gruesser took a shot towards the empty net, but Corey Block was able to kick it away for a defensive save. Miami's final opportunity of the game came on a penalty corner in the 69th minute. Gabby Goldach got off a shot, but it was wide of the goal.

"I'm very happy with the team, it was a lot of fun to play this game, said head coach Iñako Puzo. "Michigan State has a great team; they will go far this season. We're rebuilding our program. Today we just put one more brick in its foundation. It was one big step forward."

Jackie Nguyen led Miami with two shots on goal. Mueller made two saves in net. Michigan State outshot the RedHawks, 10-8, and had a 5-3 advantage in penalty corners.

Miami continues its homestand when it welcomes William and Mary Friday for a 3 p.m. game.