Field Hockey Falls in Season Opener

HENNIKER, NH: Rivier field hockey fell 1-0 against New England College on Saturday at Don Melander Field in Henniker, New Hampshire, in non-conference action.

THE BASICS:

Score: New England College 1, Rivier 0

Records: Pilgrims (2-0), Raiders (0-1)

HOW IT HAPPENED:

- The first half was competitive throughout, with the Raiders earning numerous scoring opportunities early on and forcing six penalty corners. The 'Grims dug in, however, ultimately claiming a 9-6 advantage in shots. The home team finally broke through with just 15 seconds left in the second quarter when NEC sophomore midfielder Taylor Bailey took a short pass from senior forward Drea Chin and finished for her first goal of the season.

- After a scoreless third quarter, NEC practically lived on the offensive side of the field in the fourth quarter, dominating with 16 shots and eight penalty corners in the pursuit of the insurance goal. Nevertheless, 1-0 would hold up for the final.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

- NEC graduate goalkeeper Jackie Mountford tallied six saves for the 'Grims for a shutout, while Rivier junior goalkeeper Olivia Boucher (Berlin, NH) finished with 17 stops in a heroic effort for the Raiders.

- Shots on the day were 33-7 in favor of the 'Grims, with a 17-6 edge in penalty corners. NEC is now 16-3 all-time against Rivier.

- NEC senior midfielder Mikayla Vincent led all players with 12 shots.

UP NEXT

- Rivier hosts their home opener on Thursday evening when they face Albertus Magnus College in GNAC action, that game starting at 7:00 p.m.

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