Penalty corners elevate York to shutout victory over Lady Trojans

New Kent’s Jorden Lilley (right) uses impressive stick work to dribble and navigate the ball down the field as a York defender gives chase.

Robb Johnson photo

Playing with low numbers and a lack of games due to postponements, New Kent’s Lady Trojans field hockey team hosted the Group 3A state runners-up in York Tuesday night. And while the hosts hung tough early on, a tough schedule by the visiting Lady Falcons proved why they are still a top contender.

York defeated New Kent 3-0 in the Bay Rivers District match-up in a contest that was closer than the final score.

After a scoreless first quarter, York got its first goal early in the second. York’s Chevelle Claypool converted a penalty corner, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.

But for the game, New Kent’s Lady Trojans held their ground, thanks to Brie Otey’s goalkeeping and a stellar defense. A save by Otey just before the halftime intermission kept the game close and provided the hosts an opportunity for an upset.

But the third quarter saw a questionable score argued by Lady Trojans Head Coach Cristen Sickal. A penalty corner was converted by York’s Carly Cooper, with Sickal arguing the ball was kicked in. The goal stood however, providing the visitors a 2-0 lead. York added one additional goal in the final frame to put together the final margin.

After the contest, Sickal commented about the controversial goal and how it swayed momentum.

“The second penalty corner she stopped it with her stick and hit it with her feet,” the disappointed head coach said. “It should have been called and the other coach agreed to that.”

But despite the outcome, the head coach did point to her team’s performance from the game.

“I think we matched up really well tonight, but we played one of the worst games we have all year,” Sickal added. “We had no energy, and we were flat. Even with that adversity we faced tonight, we have to push through.”

New Kent’s record falls to 2-2 on the year.