SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Senior Day was bittersweet for Syracuse Field Hockey as the team fell 3-1 to the Harvard Crimson.
Despite the defeat, the Orange celebrated goalkeeper Jessie Eiselin, forwards Hattie Madden and Grace Anne McCooey, midfielder Bo Madden and defender Grace O’Connor after the game.
Harvard scored three goals in the opening half, including two from penalty corners. The Crimson pinned Syracuse in its defensive zone, forcing passing errors and preventing offensive possession.
“It’s kind of Harvard’s style,” said head coach Lynn Farquhar. “So, we needed our backs to be able to make that space.”
Syracuse grew into the game, putting together a strong attacking second half. The team built patiently from the back and placed long balls over the top to get around the stifling Harvard defense.
The Orange spoiled the shutout three minutes into the third period. Hattie Madden deflected a pass on goal, and McCooey tapped it between the goalie’s legs for her second of the season.
The third period has been active for Syracuse, with 11 goals scored in the frame this year.
“When things aren’t going as planned, you just have to trust the process,” said Farquhar.
The fourth period was the best for Syracuse. The team racked up four shots, two from penalty corners, and held the Crimson to zero in the final 15 minutes.
It wasn’t enough. The clock expired with Harvard taking the 3-1 win.
“Overall, not the outcome you’re seeking,” said Farquhar. “We had to morph and figure some things out, and we got there. It just took a little bit longer than one would have hoped.”
Syracuse will finish out the regular season with four ACC matchups. The Orange are on the road, taking on North Carolina and Stanford before returning home to face Cal and Boston College.