The field hockey team entered its 2014 season on Aug. 29 with a 3-2 overtime loss to Big Ten member Rutgers that proved the team’s skill and determination. The Bison returned with even more strength on Aug. 31 to capture a resolute 3-1 victory over Monmouth. Cassie Lawrence ’15 and Liz Wills ’15 led the team by scoring goals in both games, helping the Bison to achieve a 1-1 record early in the season.

The Bison headed to Piscataway, N.J. to face off with Rutgers in their opening game of the season. Lawrence put the first Orange and Blue goal on the board with 11:28 remaining in the first half. She tied the score at 1-1, which was followed by Wills boosting the Bison to a 2-1 lead just over 13 minutes into the second half.

The game moved into overtime with high tensions after the Scarlet Knights brought the score back to two goals apiece. The game ended 5:53 into that overtime period when Rutgers made the winning goal.

Although a challenging defeat, the team showcased its skill against a strong Big Ten competitor, proving the team’s ability early in the season.

“Although we lost Friday, I think we played really well and we learned a lot about things we need to work on as a team,” Kelsy Kauffman ’17 said.

The Bison didn’t let the loss ruin their weekend. They bounced back against the Monmouth Hawks. Lawrence and Wills returned to repeat their stellar performances, both adding one goal apiece to the scoreboard.

Amie Pritchard ’15 also tallied a goal for the Orange and Blue while goalie Shannon Keen ’16 ensured that the Hawks did not hit the back of the net until only 5:08 remained on the clock. Keen also recorded four saves in the game.

“It was great to come back Sunday and get a hard fought win against a talented team,” Kauffman said.

The field hockey team will continue its season on the road for its next game against Penn in Philadelphia on Sept. 7.