WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. ? The Monmouth University field hockey team dropped a 2-1 decision to Saint Francis (Pa.) on Friday afternoon in Northeast Conference action. The game followed the dedication of So Sweet A Cat field, the new turf home of the Hawks field hockey program, and it featured remarks by Monmouth University President Vice Admiral Paul Gaffney and Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Marilyn McNeil. Jane Freed, whose considerable contribution made the field possible, was also there, as was Kathleen Stefanelli, who donated to the field as well.
Monmouth took the game's initial lead when senior co-captain Annie LoPresti (Middletown, N.J./Middletown North) beat the Red Flash goalie to the left side off an assist from teammate Molly Passarella (Atco, N.J./Hammonton) to give the Hawks a 1-0 lead two minutes before halftime.
Saint Francis (Pa.) tied the game up at 1-1 when Mary Wright scored off a Caitlin Brown assist eight minutes into the second half, and Annie Paccione added the game-winner when she scored at the 57:12 mark of the game.
The Hawks outshot Saint Francis (Pa.), now 3-10 on the year and 3-1 in the conference, 16-12, but were outshot in the second half 7-4. The Red Flash held a slim 9-8 advantage in penalty corner opportunities for the game.
Melissa Katz (Tinton Falls, N.J./Monmouth Regional) made four saves in goal for Monmouth, while Saint Francis (Pa.) goalie Erin Reifsteck made seven stops for the visitors.
Monmouth, now 4-8 on the season and 3-1 in the NEC, returns to action on Sunday, October 12 when they host Lock Haven at 1:00 p.m. on So Sweet A Cat field.
