NORTHAMPTON — The South Hadley field hockey team jumped out early against Northampton, then held off the Blue Devils for a 2-0 win, Monday.
Freshman Gabi Moroney fired a pass through the crease of the offensive zone to senior Savannah Sudyka, who shot the ball on net and scored early in the first half for a 1-0 lead.
South Hadley’s second goal was scored by senior Olivia Wilson, who put home a rebound late in the first half.
“I think we came out charging first half, which was good,” South Hadley coach Tara Cole said. “Second half I think Northampton was able to read us a little bit better, and I think that (Northampton coach) Sarah (Williams) is a great coach so she was able to capitalize on some areas where we need to still work on.”
South Hadley (3-1-1) played a strong game throughout, but controlled the first half. The Tigers had many scoring chances, with five first-half shots on goal leading to both tallies. Northampton (1-2-1) made a strong push in the second half, but fell short.
“I would definitely say that we came out stronger in the second half, and unfortunately a little late,” Williams said. “Our last 10 minutes overall, we were just discussing, was our strongest 10 minutes.”
In the second half, Northampton controlled the ball better, moved the ball more and had more scoring chances. Late in the game the Blue Devils took a penalty corner, which they played to the outside, but the pass was too strong. It missed the intended receiver and went out of bounds.
Both teams played two goalies. South Hadley started Maddie Fontaine, who made one save in the first half. Brook Blair was in goal for the second half and did not make a save.
Northampton goalies Sara Grimaldi (three saves) and Ella Moreau (three saves) split halves as well.
“We have two goalies right now and they both go back and forth between varsity and JV,” Williams said. “… The goalie was not the only position that was key in today’s win or loss, we have to work together as a whole team.”
South Hadley will look to build off its win.
“This is a good win for us Northampton is always a really strong program,” Cole said. “So to get this win on the road is a really good sign for us.”