August 31, 2007

Castleton falls short in home opener, 3-0 to Kean University

Castleton, VT – The Castleton State College field hockey team dropped their season opener at home 3-0 to Kean University. The game marked the start of the 2007 season for the visiting cougars as well.

Both team struggled in the early going to find consistency as the scoreless first half was marked by few offensive opportunities for either squad. Kean used a late flurry towards the end of the opening frame to fire off five shots, four of which were turned away by Castleton goalie, Trisha Clark.

The Cougars refused to go away as they opened up the second half with a goal just over one minute in. Freshman, Brandee Brown tallied her first collegiate goal off a penalty corner assist by Stephanie Cirino.

Kean would tack on a pair of insurance goals later in the half as Amie Hoch sent home her first collegiate goal of a Brittany Gibbs assist. Gibbs, Kean’s leading scorer from a season ago added her first goal of the year with under four minutes remaining to put the game out of reach.

Castleton would have opportunities to salvage a goal, but Cougar goalie, Jenni Barry, sealed her first shut-out of the year by stopping all four shots she faced. Clark finished the afternoon with seven saves for Castleton. Kean led the battle of penalty corners 13-5, and out-shot the home team 13-4 on the afternoon.

The Spartans return to action on Sunday when they host Ramapo at 1:00 pm. Kean plays host to FDU-Florham on September 6 in their home opener. [Box Score]

Coaches' Player of the Game: Heather Brock

###Spartans###