The 14th-ranked Saint Joseph’s field hockey team wrapped up their unbeaten conference season with a 4-1 victory over La Salle. This win secured their seventh outright Atlantic 10 regular season title in eight seasons. It was also their second consecutive perfect conference record. The game took place at Ellen Ryan Field in Merion Station, Pennsylvania.
The Hawks got off to a strong start, scoring the first goal just six minutes into the game. Celeste Smits took advantage of a loose ball and found the back of the net, giving Saint Joseph’s a 1-0 lead. Erika Culp extended the lead three minutes later with a goal assisted by Lily Santi.
La Salle managed to narrow the margin with a goal from former Hawk Julianna Smyth towards the end of the first quarter. However, Annabel Lindemulder quickly restored the two-goal advantage for Saint Joseph’s with a goal in the second quarter, assisted by Manu Ghigliotti.
In the final minutes of the game, Culp scored her second goal of the day, sealing the victory for the Hawks. The team dominated in shots, with a 13-5 advantage, and corners, with a 14-7 lead.
The win also ended La Salle’s impressive seven-game winning streak. With this victory, Saint Joseph’s secured the top seed in the upcoming 2023 Atlantic 10 Championship, which will begin on November 2.
The Hawks have proven once again that they are a force to be reckoned with in the field hockey world. Their consistent success in the Atlantic 10 conference is a testament to their skill and determination. As they head into the championship, they will undoubtedly be a team to watch.
Congratulations to the Saint Joseph’s field hockey team on their outstanding season and best of luck in the upcoming tournament!