Field Hockey Falls In Shootout To Longwood University

MUNCIE, Ind. - The Ball State field hockey team suffered a heart-breaking 3-2 defeat in a penalty shootout to Longwood University Saturday afternoon at the Briner Sports Complex.

"We definitely fought we left everything out there," Ball State head field hockey coach Stephanie Bernthal said. "Their are games that you are going to come up a little bit short and this was one of those games. Longwood is a really good opponent and they have had some great wins this year. Today was great preparation for what we could face in the tournament next week."

The Cardinals (2-15, 2-4 MAC) wrapped up its regular season today in Mid-American Conference action over the Lancers (9-6, 4-2 MAC). Ball State also celebrated Senior Day, honoring three seniors, Beth Barnes, Darbi Gullett and Anya Eicher in a ceremony prior to the contest.

Ball State led offensively, outshooting Longwood 19-16, timely plays and strong defense allowed both teams to take the game into a sudden death situation.

The game started out strong offensively for both teams, Longwood would score first at the 8:55 mark. Shortly after, Rachel Pereira connected off of a penalty stroke to knot the game 1-1 with 22 minutes remaining in the first stanza.

About seven minutes later, the Cardinals drew a corner, which resulted in a lot of action inside the circle. Michelle Shampton would come out on top as she found the back of the net to give Ball State a 2-1 edge over Longwood.

The Lancers then grabbed the momentum back to find themselves in the Cardinals territory, Olivia Wawrzyniak scored to tie the game 2-2 right before intermission.

After halftime, the game became a defensive battle, as both teams couldn't find their offensive groove. Unable to score, the contest was sent into double overtime. Ball State had its chance for the win in both OT's off of penalty corners but struggled to score sending the game into a shootout.

For the game, Pereira led all players with 10 of the Cardinals 19 shot attempts. Defensively, Grace Chavez had five saves.

Ball State will now compete at the 2018 MAC Tournament (Oct. 31-Nov. 3) in Oxford, Ohio, hosted by Miami University.

For the most up-to-date news on the Ball State field hockey team, please follow @BallStateSports and @BallStateFH.

Field Hockey Falls In Shootout To Longwood University

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Team Stats

Rachel Pereira

Michelle Shampton

Abby Ferenczy

Arantxa Rosainz Caloca

Players Mentioned

Beth Barnes

Grace Chavez

Anya Eicher

Darbi Gullett

Rachel Pereira

Michelle Shampton

Players Mentioned

Beth Barnes

Grace Chavez

Anya Eicher

Darbi Gullett

Rachel Pereira

Michelle Shampton