2008 Woodie Awards
Field Hockey beats Bears, scales Ivy
Erin Redihan '08
Issue date: 9/28/06 Section: Sports
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"Since I was an assistant at Maine for almost nine years, there's always a little extra personal feeling when we play them," said Providence Head Coach Diane Madl. "The rivalry really comes in that it's always a battle with Maine. We went into overtime three out of the first four years we played them."
No overtime was needed this year to decide the contest. On Saturday, the Friars got their chance to beat the Black Bears on their home turf, as they won 4-1 thanks to a great second half.
The Friars drew first blood when freshman Nellie Poulin fed sophomore Meghan Holden for her third goal this season. Providence goalie Rachel Chamberlain stopped five Maine first half shots thatcame her way.
Providence struck again early in the first half when junior Abby Maguire scored in the 43rd minute off Poulin's second assist of the game. This marked the second straight game where Poulin added two assists. The Friars' second goal was followed four minutes later by the Black Bears' lone goal, tallied by Katie Flaherty off an assist from Kristina Healy.
"After [Maine] scored, we had to make sure we came out to play consistent, good hockey. We stayed effective and, luckily, we were able to capitalize on some opportunities late in the game."
PC senior Melissa McGow registered the final two points for the Friars in her first multiple goal game of the season. She now leads the team in goals with six on the year to go along with her six assists, another team high.
"She's a special kid," said Madl of McGow, the senior captain. "She's been very consistent and steady all year. Melissa's been very well-rounded on and off the field and I'm glad to see her shining."
"This was a game we knew we had to win since we lost to them last year," said Jess Lane, a sophomore defender who had one shot and one assist against Maine. "We came out strong and we really focused."
As usual, Providence's defense was stellar, particularly Chamberlain who allowed only the one goal while saving eight Black Bear shots, tying her career high in saves. "Rachel came in strong and she's only improved," said Lane of Chamberlain. "There's been no change with her playing instead of a veteran [goaltender]." For her efforts against both Maine and in the win at Georgetown on Wednesday, Sept. 20, Chamberlain was named the Big East Defensive Player of the Week for the third straight week.