BUFFALO, N.Y. — Mercy University (1-1) defeated D'Youville University (0-2) with a decisive 4-1 victory at Dobson Field, capitalizing on 12 shots on goal and maintaining a strong offensive presence throughout the match.
The first quarter saw a strong defensive performance from D'Youville, with
Sarah Reifsnyder making key saves against the Mavericks' aggressive offense, including two crucial stops in the first 10 minutes of action. Despite several penalty corners and shots, including attempts by
Sydney Bolesta and
Meeah Wegrzynowski, D'Youville was unable to capitalize. Mercy managed to break through with a goal by Jessica Evans in the 11th minute, leaving the Saints trailing as the quarter concluded.
The second quarter began with Mercy applying offensive pressure, as a series of shots culminated in a goal by Madison Brefka in the 18th, giving the Mavericks a 2-0 lead. The Saints responded with strategic play, highlighted by
Madisyn Grawl executing two penalty corners in the period, resulting in a subsequent shot from Bolesta that went wide. The quarter concluded with key defensive efforts from D'Youville, including a critical save by goalkeeper Reifsnyder in the final minute of the half, and a defensive save by Bolesta moments later, preventing further scoring by Mercy.
The third quarter began with the Saints' Grawl creating opportunities through multiple penalty corners, though neither Bolesta's shot nor subsequent attempts by
Nicole Chapungu and
Chloe Burkhard found the back of the net, as they were either blocked or went wide. Despite an aggressive offensive push, including a key save by Reifsnyder against a Mercy shot (36'), the quarter remained scoreless. Defensive efforts and frequent fouls characterized the rest of the quarter, with D'Youville unable to alter the score against Mercy's defense.
The fourth quarter began with a flurry of fouls from both teams, setting a tense tone for the remainder of the game. Mercy's Charlotte Sabert broke through in the 52nd minute, netting her first goal of the season, followed by a penalty shot goal by Madison Preston. Despite a challenging quarter, D'Youville's Grawl capitalized on a penalty corner (59'), scoring her first goal of the season and closing the gap before the final whistle.
Grawl scored one goal on her single shot, recording the first goal of the season for the Saints. Bolesta registered four shots and added a defensive save, displaying her dual contribution. Reifsnyder made seven saves in goal, providing a strong defensive effort.
Looking ahead, the D'Youville field hockey team will defend their home turf against Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The game is set for Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 4 PM at Dobson Field in Buffalo, N.Y.
