Field Hockey: Olsen's 12 saves helps Rivier bounce Simmons in OT, 1-0

Field Hockey: Olsen's 12 saves helps Rivier bounce Simmons in OT, 1-0

Story written and posted by Anthony Perry, Rivier University Sports Information Director

NASHUA, N.H. – Freshman Carissa Letendre (Whitinsville, Mass.) scored her second-straight overtime winner as the Rivier University Field Hockey team shutout visiting Simmons University, 1-0 in overtime under the lights at Joanne Merrill Field. The win evens out the Raiders' overall record at 3-3 with a 1-1 mark against the conference. The Sharks fall below .500 as they are now 3-4 overall, 1-1 in conference play.

This marks the first time in the 11-year history of the Raider Field Hockey program that the team has defeated Simmons. The all-time series now resides at 10-1-0 in favor of the Sharks.

Letendre was the beneficiary of a set penalty corner play executed perfectly by the Raiders. After an insert by junior Nicole Mansfield (Acton, Mass.), sophomore Lia Yohanan (Andover, N.J.) riffled a one bounce pass that found the stick of Letendre who buried it home for the game-winner.

Sophomore goalkeeper Katie Olsen (Saugus, Mass.) recorded her second consecutive shutout and third of her career as she made a career-high 12 saves on the night. Simmons junior keeper Lucy McNamara (Brewster, Mass.) made three saves on four shots.

After a perfect 2-0 week, the Raiders will enjoy some rest before returning to the field on Tuesday night as they travel to Elms College for a 7pm non-conference affair. Simmons will be right back on the field tomorrow afternoon as they host Thomas College at 2pm.