Hey there, sports fans! Let me tell you about the intense field hockey showdown between Denison University and Ohio Wesleyan University. It was a battle between the top two teams in the North Coast Athletic Conference standings, and it did not disappoint. Unfortunately, Denison came up short in a wild shootout that lasted eight rounds against the undefeated Battling Bishops.
Both teams entered the game with perfect records in conference play, not allowing a single goal. And let me tell you, the defense was on fire throughout the match. Denison was outshot 12-0 in regulation, but they managed to keep the Battling Bishops at bay, allowing only one shot on goal, which was expertly saved by Athena Joannou in the 57th minute.
The game went into overtime, and the tension was palpable. In the first overtime period, Ohio Wesleyan had a penalty corner, but Joannou once again made a fantastic save. The follow-up shot by the Battling Bishops hit the post, keeping Denison’s hopes alive.
As the clock ticked away, both teams fought tooth and nail to break the deadlock. Denison’s first shot of the game came in the 76th minute from Lila Smith, but it was saved by Meg McCarthy. A penalty corner by Nina Casingal in the 77th minute led to a shot by Tabitha Chandler, but it was blocked away.
With no goals scored in overtime, the game went into a shootout. Denison started strong with a goal from Chandler, but Ohio Wesleyan quickly equalized with a goal from Oliva Danley. The shootout continued with both teams missing their chances, until Chandler scored again in round seven. But once again, the Battling Bishops responded with a goal from Grace Ammon.
In the eighth and final round, Denison’s Rachel Gilio missed her shot, giving Ohio Wesleyan the opportunity to win the game. Megan Knee stepped up and scored the winning goal, securing the victory for the undefeated Battling Bishops.
It was a heartbreaking loss for Denison, but they put up a valiant fight against a formidable opponent. With this defeat, Denison’s overall record stands at 10-5, with an impressive 8-1 record in the NCAC. On the other hand, Ohio Wesleyan remains undefeated with a perfect 15-0 record, including an incredible 12 consecutive shutouts.
This game was essentially a battle for the NCAC Championship, and both teams gave it their all. Denison will wrap up their regular season against Washington and Jefferson College, while Ohio Wesleyan will host the College of Wooster. Make sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, October 28, at 12 p.m. to catch these exciting matchups!
That’s all for now, folks. Stay tuned for more thrilling sports action!