Box Score New Paltz, NY — The State University of New York at New Paltz field hockey team improved to 2-0 in State University of New York Conference (SUNYAC) play with a 3-0 home win over Oswego State Friday.
 
The Hawks (6-4 overall) held possession in the Lakers (4-5, 2-3) defensive half for the majority of the game, but it took until the second half before they found the back of the cage.
 
Kaitlyn Gunter got the SUNY New Paltz offense started, putting away a pass from Carly Croteau off the right side where she lifted her shot into the back corner of the cage. 
 
Gunter then helped add to the lead, assisting on the following goal by Serena Capsello. Carrying the ball down the right side, Gunter played the ball across the circle where Capsello was there to re-direct the pass into the goal.  
 
Jessica Ascencao put away the Hawks' third goal in the 68^th minute, ripping a shot off a corner by Samantha Ackerman for the score.
 
"I think the second half they did a better job of just releasing much sooner and trying to really make some successful passes inside the circle into a quick shot, so that was a change," said SUNY New Paltz coach Shanna Szablinksi. "I think it is just really important moving forward we just continue to take space and recognizing our opportunities ahead of us and keep the transition flowing quickly."
 
The Hawks were dominant throughout the game, out-shooting Oswego State, 28-2, and had a 15-5 advantage on corners. Although they were satisfied to earn the win, SUNY New Paltz know it needs to take advantage more in the circle moving forward, especially with defending SUNYAC champion SUNY Cortland looming Saturday.
 
"We have to be sharp on the ball," Szablinksi said. "We have to create opportunities off the ball and we can't afford to waste opportunities inside the circle, so we have to be prepared and ready for that."
 
Defensively, the Hawks did well in limiting Laker chances. Their two goals allowed during the game is a season-high for a young defensive line and the shut out was their first of the year.
 
"I think the team did well," Szablinksi said. "The pressured the ball nicely. Kayla [Ahern] came up with some really nice tackles inside the circle. Defensively, we weren't challenged a whole lot, but they did what was necessary."
 
"I think what we did well today on defense is that we really gave our second effort and we really hustled to get back and get that ball back up the field," Ahearn added.
 
SUNY New Paltz is back in action Saturday to take on the Red Dragons for a 1 p.m. game on the North Turf Field. Last time the Hawks saw SUNY Cortland was in the SUNYAC championship game, and they are prepared to avenge that loss.
 
"We really wanted to start this weekend off right and get this win, and really get the momentum going, just get that mind set ready for Cortland tomorrow," said Hawks freshman back Kayla Ahern. "We can really take it to them tomorrow."

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