All four SOL Class 3A field hockey teams saw their season end in Tuesday’s opening round of the District 1 Tournament.
Class 3A
#1 MOUNT ST JOSEPH 11, #16 UPPER MORELAND 0
(Article submitted by Upper Moreland field hockey)
Upper Moreland faced a difficult challenge against No. 1 Mount St. Joseph’s with several college recruits in its lineup but showed resilience throughout. We adjusted our lineup to play more defensively, knowing Mount St. Joseph’s had several highly skilled players.
Olivia Torres moved to center back, a new position for her, and rose to the challenge. She has excellent field sense and is willing to do anything for her team. Torres gave MSJ a run for their money challenging them throughout the game.
Goalie Izzy Fisher had an outstanding game, making 24 saves in the first half alone and finishing with 30. She turned away repeated shots with her pads, stick and hand protectors. We are learning that Fisher thrives in tough competition, and she rose to the occasion once again.
What made me especially proud was that Upper Moreland played as a team through to the final whistle. I have coached for 40+ years, and this is one of the most supportive team environments that I have ever coached in. This team continues to amaze me with the way the players encourage each other, no matter what grade/position or skill level. They celebrate small victories, and when things get difficult, they have each other’s backs rather than placing blame.
As Mount St. Joseph’s pressured our defensive circle, our defensive unit worked relentlessly to clear the ball. Hannah Gardner, Charlotte Russo, Lyla Soleau and Bridget Hess helped limit the pressure time and time again. During this pressure, there were several spectacular defensive saves by field players. Torres recorded three defensive saves, Gardner had two, and senior Russo added another. Each one was amazing!
Our players were not intimidated, and each player had moments to show what they could do. Soph Riehle used her stickwork to move the ball upfield, while MJ Reilly was a steady presence in the midfield, pressuring MSJ and helping drive the attack. Midfielders Kourtney Malone, Gianna Morrison, Taylor Pagano and Harper Richmond raised their level of play against the strong opponents, competing hard throughout the game. Captain Gianna Jones worked hard at both ends of the field to keep possession on attack and helping defensively below the 25.
The 11–0 result was difficult, but we know that this game gave our players a valuable opportunity to compete against strong competition and learn from the experience. We are proud of their effort and resilience, and although we will miss our seniors next year, this will help the team prepare for next season!
#2 UNIONVILLE 9, #15 WISSAHICKON 1
#3 GWYNEDD MERCY 7, #14 UPPER DUBLIN 1
#5 RADNOR 8, #12 LOWER MORELAND 0
About the Author
