On Friday, the New Haven field hockey team hosted their first Division I matchup against the Sacred Heart University Pioneers. The stands were packed for the Chargers’ home opener, but the Pioneers came out on top, 4-0.
Sacred Heart scored early, with the first goal coming from Ines Braithwaite about three minutes into the game. Despite efforts from the Chargers’ defense, the Pioneers added two more goals in the second quarter and the fourth and final goal in the third. New Haven held off the Pioneers in the fourth but could not find the back of the net.
Freshman goalkeeper Anne Marie Martin made her collegiate debut for New Haven and stopped 16 shots from Sacred Heart’s offense, including a penalty shot early in the first quarter. Despite her effort, the Chargers were outmatched offensively and were unable to take a shot on goal. New Haven also tallied 22 fouls, while Sacred Heart had 34.
The Chargers also traveled to the University of Maine to play the Black Bears and took a 9-0 loss on the road. Martin recorded 11 saves on 20 shots, while New Haven was unable to take a shot on goal.
After the two tough losses, the Chargers will hit the road on Sept. 19 and take on the University of Massachusetts Lowell River Hawks at 12:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.newhavenchargers.com.
