Philadelphia, Pa. - The Old Dominion Field Hockey Team faced off against Temple on Friday in Philadelphia, falling 1-0 to the Owls in overtime.
“It’s a tough loss no question, and it was not a good performance from us. In part it’s a reflection of our youth and how we need to grow as a team as the season goes on.” said ODU Head Coach Andrew Griffiths.
The first half of play was back-and-forth, with both sides unable to capitalize on scoring chances. Old Dominion had three penalty corners in the first quarter but was unable to find the net. Temple had two penalty corners in the second quarter, with one of those attempts forcing Suus Broers into a double save to keep the score tied.
“We played poorly in the first half, and we didn’t look 100 percent ready to play. That’s my responsibility. And overall in the game, we had a pretty average performance and we still had plenty of offensive chances to win the game.” said Griffiths.
The second half was just as evenly contested, with both sides fighting for an edge. ODU had two penalty corners in the third quarter but could not capitalize. In the fourth, Temple held the advantage in penalty corners 2-1 yet neither side was able to convert.
With both sides held scoreless at the end of four quarters the teams headed for overtime. Temple’s Myrthe Schuilenberg delivered for the Owls as the hosts secured the victory.
“Temple played hard, aggressively, and they are a good team, which we had prepared for.” Griffiths added.
"The shot statistics are misleading. We completely controlled the second half with our press, and the play was almost entirely up in their end. In terms of attacking, attacks into the 25 and circle were about 3-1 in our favor, but we didn't turn these into enough corners or clear scoring chances." said Griffiths
Each team had eight shots and six corners. ODU had one more shot on target to Temple with a tally of 5-4 while Temple had two more saves than ODU. Tess Jedeloo led the Monarchs with four shots, one of them on target.
“We will work on finding a way to convert on corners, which did not look dangerous today. So we have plenty to work on, and most importantly working together to create more quality attacking chances.” said Griffiths.
Suus Broers played 63:57 in goal and recorded three saves. Temple’s Isabella Ospitale also played 63:57 in goal and recorded four saves.
ODU will next be in action on Sunday, September 29, When the Monarchs will face off against VCU in Richmond, Va. at 1p.m.