Eagles soar over Blazers

Sept. 20, MONTGOMERY BLAIR-

The Blair field hockey team lost their third game of the season in a difficult but encouraging 4-1 loss against the Seneca Valley Eagles. Despite the score, the Blazers are satisfied with their improvement over previous games.

The game was more evenly matched than either of the team's previous two games. Blair was generally able to connect on passes and move the ball up the sidelines, but was unable to capitalize on their numerous scoring opportunities. But it was on defense where the Blazers struggled. They had trouble clearing the ball and generated 15 corners for the Eagles.

The Blazers started the game sluggishly on defense and were unable to connect on passes or handle the ball effectively in their own zone, leading to an Eagles goal off of a corner early in the first half. Blair responded by tightening up their play and played the ball up and down the field for 15 minutes before sophomore Iliya Smithka scored on an assist by junior Christine Kim. However, the Eagles would take back the lead before the end of the half on a shot from left of the net past senior goalkeeper Jordy Goldstein.

In the second half the Blazers had trouble getting back onto defense quickly, allowing the Eagles to take shots off of fast breaks. Still, the team was able to counter-attack and had several chances to score, including three corners. Unfortunately, they never took advantage of their opportunities and failed to score in the second half.

Senior captain Julie Spatz was happy with the team's play and optimistic about the remainder of the season. "The score doesn't matter in this game. What matters is that we improved a lot and had a lot more chances to score, and that improvement is what is going to get us that win," she said. Spatz was also impressed with the change in attitude. "The winning mentality we need is growing," she said.

The offense was led by Smithka and Kim, who communicated well and did a good job pushing the ball up the field. At midfield, junior Jessie Hallberlin and senior Sydney Valdez played aggressively and helped to transition the ball. In net, Goldstein had nine saves.

Coach Brook Franceschini was also pleased with the group's progress. "We're getting there, slowly but steadily," she said.

Blair's next game is on Sept 23 when they travel to Quince Orchard to take on the Cougars at 3:30 p.m.