Utica, NY — An early 3-0 lead propelled the State University of New York at New Paltz field hockey team to a season-opening 4-1 win Friday over hosting Utica College in the opening game of the Utica College Invitational.
 
Morgan Gunter helped the Hawks (1-0) get on the board early, just about nine minutes into the first quarter. It didn't take long for SUNY New Paltz to double-down on the lead, as Carly Croteau scored her first goal of the season less than two minutes later.
 
Croteau then helped the Hawks establish a 3-0 lead early in the second quarter, assisting on a goal by freshman Natasia Plunkett.
"Today we did a great job of attacking space while transitioning from defense to attack with speed and good decision making," said SUNY New Paltz coach Shanna Szablinski. "Our movement off the ball was effective and allowed us to have the advantage in our attacking end."
 
The Pioneers got on the board  before time expired in the first half, but their offense was limited to just three shots in the second half allowing SUNY New Paltz to pull away for the win. Reigning SUNYAC Rookie of the Year Jessica Ascencao scored her first goal of the year in the fourth quarter to cement the, 4-1 victory.

"We worked hard the entire time and continuously stepped up to deny their attack," Szablinski added. "We are looking forward to carrying that momentum into tommorrow's game." 
 
SUNY New Paltz dominated on the stat sheet, out-shooting Utica 20-8, including 17-6 on goal. The Hawks totaled 13 corners, while the Pioneers earned just three. Ryan Dowling played all 60 minutes and totaled four saves on the day.
 
The Hawks are back in action Saturday in the second day of the Utica College Invitational, taking on St. Lawrence at 3 p.m.

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