Aug. 30, 2009
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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - A strong nine save performance from junior Ali Meves wasn't enough as the No. 11 Penn State field hockey team dropped a 1-0 decision to sixth ranked Virginia on Sunday afternoon. The Cavaliers scored with just over 10 minutes remaining in the first half and pitched the shutout despite a valiant Nittany Lion effort.
The Cavaliers were tested early and often, just two days after a convincing 7-0 win over Miami (Ohio). Sunday marked the first Virginia victory against Penn State since a 4-2 final in the National Quarterfinals on Nov. 16, 1997. It was also the Cavs' first regular season win since Oct. 30, 1984, snapping the Lions' nine game regular season winning streak. Overall, Penn State had been riding a four game streak against the preseason ACC favorites.
"It was a very competitive game between two good teams," said Head Coach Charlene Morett. "We played a very nice possession game at times, but it was similar to Friday in that we got the ball into the circle, but failed to create many shots or corners."
After almost 25 minutes of scoreless action, Virginia took a 1-0 lead off a penalty corner. Inga Stockel's first goal of the season came on a direct shot and was assisted by Traci Ragukas and Charlotte van den Broek.
The Lions turned up the pressure after a slow beginning to the second half, but they couldn't find the back of the cage. The 1-0 final marked the second consecutive season that the home team has won by that score. Last season, the Lions won a huge 1-0 game over the then 10th ranked Cavaliers.
Final shots were 17-5 in favor of Virginia while Penn State had four penalty corners to the Cavaliers' three. Meves' counterpart, Kim Kastuk, was strong as well with three saves to earn her second shutout in as many games.
Redshirt freshman Hannah Allison led the Lions with three shots while seniors Amy Bonenberger and Bethany Marvel had one apiece. Sunday also marked the first action of the season for both sophomore Casey McCartin and redshirt freshman Kristen Schaefer.
Penn State returns home in preparation for its home-opener vs. Lock Haven on Friday at 6 p.m. The Lions then host No. 5 Connecticut on Sunday at 12 p.m. Check back to GoPSUsports.com through the week for a complete preview of next weekend's action.
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