Women’s field hockey has enjoyed unparalleled success, and looked to continue their success weekend against the Dutchwomen from Union and the sixth ranked Thoroughbreds from Skidmore.
The RPI defense was smothering on Friday, only allowing the Dutchwomen two shots. Elisa Prange and Dina Cinelli led the offense with two goals each, and Tatianna Russell pitched in with two assists. Cinelli scored her first goal on a deflection and her second came just before the half off of a great pass from Mary Roy. Prange got her two goals from shots beyond 15 yards, scoring her first on a laser from center and her second on a turnaround fed by Russell. Union fielded its only goal 17:01 into the game with a hard shot from Ashley LoTempio. Amanda Lund, RPI’s goaltender, made one save and only faced two shots on her way to the victory. Rensselaer extended their season high winning streak to five and awaited Skidmore.
The Red Hawks now had momentum coming off of their 6-1 drubbing of Union. They faced the nationally ranked Thoroughbreds. Sixth ranked Skidmore proved to be too much for the Red Hawks, striking early and often on their way to a 7-0 victory. Jackie Flanagan and Colleen Barber led the way; Flanagan had two goals and an assist, and Barber had a goal and three assists. Despite taking the loss, Kathy Hotchkiss had a good game, making 13 saves. The win helped Skidmore clinch the regular season title and the right to host the league tournament.
After the weekend, RPI is 11-4, 4-2 in league play. The Red Hawks will close out the season Saturday at Vassar. Game time is 2 pm.
