Box Score Unable to break the slump against Amherst, the Ephs lost again today 2-0. The last win for the Ephs against the school's rival was in 2009. Although it provides no solace for the players today, the Williams versus Amherst field hockey record is 27-14-1.
After three games of great teamwork and intensity, the Ephs fell short. Coach Alix Barrale said that the difference for them today was that they "really did not play well as a team and [they] couldn't get in a rhythm offensively." A bit intimidated by the rivalry and Amherst's national rank as eleven, the Ephs allowed the Jeffs to play their game. Instead of setting the tone, Barrale said, "it felt like we just reacted to Amherst and their style of play."
Sophomore Margaret Draper had a great game in net and kept the score manageable for her teammates. The early goal in the first two minutes off of a corner for Amherst, though, put in Williams in a scramble for the rest of the game. They just could not get back on their feet.
Despite this tone, Williams denied Amherst of any regular play goals. Both Amherst goals came off of well-executed corners. The Ephs, too, countered with multiple solid corner opportunities. They failed to earn as many as they have in they games they won this season. As Barrale noted, "we had a few spells of success and were threatening on corners, but they were few and far between."
For the Ephs this year, it is not about ability—it is about confidence. Barrale knows her team has the skill and depth to be a force in the NESCAC. "We can play with anyone if we believe in ourselves," asserted Barrale. "We will just continue to build a stronger foundation and work to improve in every practice."
The Ephs' confidence will be tested this Tuesday when they play Smith College at 7:00 PM.
