Lady Trojans can’t beat elements, Grafton in field hockey clash

New Kent's Haylie Bayens (14) and Bella Focht (6) fight through the rain to prevent Grafton's Allison Teubert from gaining possession of the ball.

Robb Johnson photo

Rain during Monday’s night field hockey contest between Grafton’s Lady Clippers and New Kent’s Lady Trojans provided challenges on a wet field for both teams. But similar to their mascot, it was the Lady Clippers who sailed to the win.

Two goals in the second half was enough for Grafton to escape with a 2-0 win over New Kent in the Bay Rivers’ match-up.

In the first half, both teams struggled to attempt shots on goals thanks to wind and rain. Both teams played possession strategies to notch a 0-0 game at halftime intermission.

But in the second half, Grafton controlled for nearly the entire 30 minutes by staying aggressive and keeping the Lady Trojans on defense. It wasn’t until 10:45 left remaining in the game when Lady Clipper Allison Teuburt converted a penalty corner to lead to a goal. Five minutes later, teammate Riley Jones scored from an additional penalty corner to put away the contest.

After the game, Lady Trojan assistant coach Maria Bates spoke about battling the messy field conditions and elements.

“Our communication was excelling the entire game,” she said. “We executed and played well in the first half.

“However, Grafton played better in the second half,” Bates continued. “They kept the ball on their side of the field and took advantage of the corners. Grafton is an amazing team and I am just proud of the girls because they played their hearts out tonight.”

New Kent Lady Trojans fall to 4-3 on the season.