The Middlebury field hockey team, ranked number one, had an impressive 3-0 victory over the tenth-ranked Williams team on Wednesday, capping off an unbeaten regular season. This marks the second time in the last three years that Middlebury has achieved an undefeated regular season. With this win, Middlebury has secured the top seed in the upcoming NESCAC Tournament and will be hosting a quarterfinal match on Saturday at Peter Kohn Field.
In the game, Middlebury took control early, scoring a goal in each of the first three quarters. The visitors had an early opportunity with a penalty corner, but unfortunately, the shot went wide of the left post. However, Middlebury quickly bounced back and took the lead with a goal from Amy Griffin. Griffin’s shot was deflected by Caroline Segal and found its way into the top of the net, giving Middlebury a 1-0 advantage.
Middlebury continued to dominate the game, creating several scoring opportunities. Lilly Branka had a chance to extend the lead, but her shot missed the target. However, Middlebury didn’t have to wait long to add to their lead. Amy Griffin scored her second goal of the game with a powerful shot that found the back of the net, increasing Middlebury’s lead to 2-0.
Williams had a few chances to get on the scoreboard, but Middlebury’s goalkeeper, KK Newton, made some impressive saves to maintain the shutout. With just seconds remaining in the game, Middlebury was awarded a penalty stroke, and Griffin made no mistake, burying the ball into the lower-right corner to give Middlebury a commanding 3-0 lead.
Amy Griffin was the standout player of the game, finishing with two goals and an assist. She has been in incredible form recently, scoring two goals in each of the last three games and finding the back of the net in the past eight games. Caroline Segal also had a notable performance, scoring her 10th goal of the season.
Middlebury’s victory extends their winning streak to 24 games and their road winning streak to 29 games. They are one of the few teams in Division III with an undefeated record this season.
The Middlebury field hockey team has a strong history against Williams, and this game was no different. Middlebury now holds a 35-21-3 advantage in the all-time series and has won 14 of the last 15 meetings.
The NESCAC Tournament seedings will be announced later tonight by the league office, and Middlebury will be hoping for a successful tournament run as they look to continue their unbeaten season.