Nov. 11, 2008
Washington, D.C.--A strong second half propelled the American University field hockey team to a 2-0 win over Lock Haven in the NCAA Play-In Game on Tuesday at the William I. Jacobs Recreational Complex. Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year Irene Schickhardt scored twice in a three-minute span, helping the Eagles advance to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2006.
American withstood a minute-long rally late in the first half to keep the game scoreless at halftime. Lock Haven received three consecutive penalty corners, starting at the 28:55 mark in the first half. The rally resulted in five shots by Lock Haven, including two shots on goal. Two saves by American goalkeeper Alyssa Poorman, in addition to a defensive save by Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year Anne-Meike De Wiljes, kept Lock Haven off the scoreboard. Lock Haven produced 10 first-half shots, but was unable to dent the scoreboard.
American produced eight first-half shots of its own, but it was not until the second half that the Eagles found the goal. Schickhardt opened the scoring three minutes into the second half, taking a penalty corner from Anne Van Erp and rifling a shot past Lock Haven goalkeeper Erin Terreson. Just over three minutes later, Schickhardt collected a rebound and launched a high shot past Terreson, giving the Eagles a 2-0 advantage.
After being out-shot in the first half, American recorded 12 second half shots, compared to just four by Lock Haven. For the game, American out-shot Lock Haven, 20-14. Poorman made five saves, including four in the first half, to pick up her 13th win and seventh shutout of the season.
American is now 2-1 in NCAA Play-In Games, dating back to the 2003 season when the Eagles defeated Quinnipiac, 4-1. American's tournament destination and opponent will be announced Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.
