Stories

Sterling Defense: Western field hockey edges CHS

Photo by Bart Isley

Western Albemarle’s field hockey team has an incredible backbone — a trio of defenders who can deliver when the Warriors need them most. 

 

“We’ve all been playing together since freshman year and we have such a strong bond,” said Western senior Jane Servine.

 

Thursday night Servine, Hermione Going and Lena Egl delivered, shutting out Charlottesville despite a barrage of shots from the Black Knights as the Warriors picked up a 1-0 victory to stay unbeaten on the year. The Warriors’ defense, as well as keepers Addie Patterson and Emily Sposato who split time in the cage, were largely responsible for the result.

 

“(Western’s seasoned defensive group) allows us the opportunity to give more exposure on the offensive side of the ball,” said Western coach Mia Fields. “They’ve earned this, they’ve set goals and it has just been great leadership.”

 

The Warriors got a difference-making goal from Mallory Green in the first half and the defense made it stand up with a lot of hard work. Green finished off the shot in the box to push the lead to 1-0. 

 

“Our assistant coach Katie Kline works so hard on our offense, of getting the ball in the circle and getting their stick on it — not swinging but the ball will do the work for you,” Fields said.

 

Green has had a solid start to the year, playing well for the Warriors as just a sophomore, fitting into a potent lineup that includes Erica Repich and Sophie Lanahan, a pair of returning All-Jefferson District picks. 

 

“I play on the right side so we’re partners together on the field and she’s been such a star this year on the team,” Servine said. “She works hard and deserves it.”

 

The loss was Charlottesville’s first of the season after they also posted a 4-0 start. The Black Knights struggled at times with possession, but created a lot of chances on the offensive end. Charlottesville simply couldn’t find the back of the cage. 

 

“I think if we had a little bit more of our possession like play we would’ve gotten that goal eventually,” said Charlottesville coach Stephanie Tharp. “It was a little disappointing but I thought they played really well.”

 

The Black Knights have meshed star seniors like Maya Block and Ashlyn Cherrix with a group of young standouts that sparked Charlottesville to the solid start. 

 

“I think some of the seasoned players are combining well,” Tharp said. “They’re just so cohesive.”

 

The Warriors face a critical match Tuesday night with Albemarle at home while the Black Knights travel to Monticello the same night. 

 

Comments

comments