Early goal by Spotsylvania enough to topple Lady Trojans

New Kent’s Kiersten Fuller (right) intercepts the path of the ball intended for Spotsylvania’s Jordan Delaney.

Andre' Jones photo

They say defense wins championships. And while there were no titles on the line between New Kent and Spotsylvania in the Aug. 24 field hockey contest, the intensity felt like a playoff game.

An early goal by Spotsylvania’s Sophie Sperry was the difference maker as the Lady Trojans lost 1-0 to the visiting Lady Knights.

With Lady Trojan Ashby Holsapple injured, the speed and athleticism of the visitors were an issue all throughout the contest. New Kent looked overwhelmed and confused by the crisp passing and ball handling by Spotsylvania early on. That teamwork by the visitors allowed Sophie Sperry to score eight minutes into the contest.

New Kent spent a majority of the first half defending their territory. On the offensive end, an 0-4 effort on penalty corners only amplified missed opportunities for the hosts.

The Lady Trojans picked up their defense and communicated better in the second half, but they could not execute at crucial times as the clock expired to end the contest.

New Kent head coach Matt Duckworth explained what his team will need to work on as the season moves forward.

“Their speed shocked up,” the coach commented. “It made us very uncomfortable and we had to scrap back after that early goal.

“The ball didn’t bounce off the sticks tonight,” Duckworth continued. “We have to get ready for the next game with better communication on the field and we all are going to have to step up.”

New Kent falls to 1-1 on the season.