High School Field Hockey:
Bishop Eustace's Relentless Efforts Decides Outcome

Friday, November 3, 2006

By Stephanie Wright
SJSports Special Correspondent

It was a match up between the second and third seed of the Central Jersey Group I field hockey tournament and there was no doubt that it would be a very close game. On the field, the Lady Crusaders from Bishop Eustace started out this game strong on both ends of the field pressuring Gloucester's defense during the opening moments. With every attempt in getting the game's first goal coming up short, Bishop Eustace just would give up. The Crusaders would score a goal in each half and reward themselves with a 2-0 win and advance to the finals against New Egypt.

The Lady Lions' defense was tested early and often against the second seeded Crusaders. Goalie Marci Hutchinson came up with some very nice saves for Gloucester during those early moments keeping this game scoreless. The Crusaders would continue pressure Gloucester's defense and were rewarded with the first goal of the game when Kendall Kreisl started off a penalty corner that Leah Furey finished off. The second half watched Gloucester have a few attempts at tying this game, but the Crusaders would turn that defensive stand into an offensive rush toward the cage. Taylor Morganti scored the second goal for Bishop Eustace and the Lady Crusaders were able to begin enjoying their semi-finals victory.