Patriots claim victory over the Blazers

Oct. 5, Montgomery Blair-

The Blair girls' varsity field hockey team reverted to their loosing ways against the Wootton Patriots, suffering a 4-0 defeat that dropped their record to 1-6.

Wootton played like a better team, displaying superior stick skills and ball control. Wootton was particularly effective in transition and creating fast-break opportunities. The Blazers played valiantly, hustling and challenging the Patriot players, but their efforts were not enough. Blair continued their goal-scoring woes, as they were shutout for the fourth time this season.

The game opened with Blair going on the attack following several excellent plays by senior co-captain Rachel Feely-Kohl. However, Wootton would quickly take control of the game and maintain possession for much of the first half. Wootton finally scored on a ball crossed in front of the goal and knocked in by an open Wootton attacker. Wootton would find the net again before the half ended when they were awarded a penalty shot after junior Sydney Valdez saved what would've been a goal with her foot.

The Blazers played better than in their losses to Poolesville and Damascus as they were able to counter-attack and put some pressure on the Wootton defense. Still, Blair continued to have problems with controlling the ball and transitioning. On several occasions the Blazer defense would make a strong clear but there would be no midfielders to collect the ball.

The Blazers started the second half re-energized and created several scoring chances. Senior co-captain Julia Penn broke free near the Wootton goal but was unable to get her shot on goal. Wootton continued to have long offensive possessions and eventually scored on a sloppy goal with the ball bouncing around in front of the goalmouth. The Blazer defense would remain solid until the waning seconds of the game, as Wootton would get one last goal before time ran out.

Senior Christina Do felt the team needed to capitalize on their opportunities. " We need to work on our free hits because when we have them we don't take advantage of them," said Do.

The defense, which only gave up three goals in regular play, was lead by Valdez and senior co-captain Alexa Gabriel who has been playing both midfield and defense. Gabriel remained Blair's most consistent hitter, however players often did not cut to the ball and get open for her. Feely-Kohl had a strong first half as she was all over the field creating turnovers and distributing the ball. Junior Emily-Kate Hannapel was moved up from the JV squad and saw considerable minutes playing up top for the Blazers.

The Blazers next play at Paint Branch on Saturday, Oct. 9 at 2:00 p.m. looking to get their second win of the season.