NEWPORT NEWS, VA – The State University of New York New Paltz field hockey team faced its toughest test of the young season Saturday morning, taking on No. 1 nationally ranked Christopher Newport University at Jennings Stadium.
The Hawks entered the matchup against their second consecutive nationally ranked opponent after a grueling back-and-forth battle with No. 10 Endicott, where a late goal in regulation ultimately proved the difference.
Christopher Newport entered its home opener red hot after beginning the season ranked No. 4 nationally. The Captains secured three ranked road victories during the opening week, outscoring No. 23 Washington & Lee, No. 3 Babson and No. 10 Endicott by a combined 11-2 margin to earn the No. 1 spot in the most recent NFHCA national poll.
SUNY New Paltz was met with immediate pressure from the Captains, who fired off three shots within the opening 1:43. Grace Grant denied all three attempts as Christopher Newport earned the first penalty corner of the contest.
The Hawks weathered the initial surge before CNU eventually broke through at the 6:51 mark. The Captains added another at 12:24 to close the opening quarter with a 2-0 advantage.
Christopher Newport continued to apply pressure throughout the second quarter, producing its most aggressive offensive period of the morning with 18 shots. Grant and the SUNY New Paltz defense turned away seven shots on goal during the frame, but the Captains managed to add two more to take a 4-0 advantage into halftime.
The Hawks attempted to establish themselves offensively, but Christopher Newport's sustained pressure made it difficult for SUNY New Paltz to find a rhythm and generate opportunities in its attacking end.
Facing a four-goal deficit at the break, the Hawks continued to battle throughout the second half but could not overcome Christopher Newport's strong opening 30 minutes. The Captains added three goals over the final two quarters to secure the 7-0 victory in their home opener.
Grant finished with 17 saves in 36 minutes of action before first-year goalkeeper Kate Comiskey took over in the cage, totaling nine saves across the final 23 minutes. The duo combined for 26 saves against the nation's top-ranked Captains
SUNY New Paltz will have a quick turnaround as it closes out its Virginia trip Sunday against Randolph-Macon College. The Hawks and Yellow Jackets are scheduled for an 11 a.m. start on Sept. 13.
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