Davis, Calif. — UC Davis field hockey welcomed No. 16 Rutgers Friday to open the 2023 season, ultimately losing a closely contested game, 2-0.
Playing in front of the home crowd at Aggie Field Hockey Facility, UC Davis was within striking distance for all 60 minutes.
In the first period, the Aggies did an excellent job of maintaining their composure and held Rutgers in check, limiting the Scarlet Knights to just one penalty corner. UC Davis registered their first shot on goal early in the action when freshman Ella Franken had a clean look at the goal in the 7th minute, which ended up being saved by Sophia Howard of Rutgers.
Much of the same would take place in the second quarter, but this time with UC Davis creating even more scoring opportunities.
Being the aggressor early to start the second period, the Aggies were almost able to convert on their lone penalty corner when Zoe Mohrman fired a shot that just went to the left of the net.
Another scoring chance for the Aggies would present itself in the second period when Skylar Richards raced down the left side of the field and missed her reverse attempt in the 26th minute.
Being on the counter, Rutgers would pick up the first goal of the game just minutes later off a penalty corner as Bridy Molyneaux converted a look after being set up from Rutgers teammate, Iris Langejans.
After entering the second half trailing 1-0, UC Davis would respond by not surrendering a goal in the third period. Stout defense from the Aggies and a shot from Audrey Lee would give UC Davis their second shot on goal, while also keeping the Aggies within reach.
Entering the fourth with a narrowly contested 1-0 deficit, UC Davis would surrender their second and final goal in the 49th minute, giving Rutgers the 2-0 lead for insurance.
In the fourth, Rutgers turned it on, registering seven shots in the final period. Doing her best to limit the Scarlet Knights all game, goalkeeper Sarah Lopez had a standout effort today, picking up three saves in the fourth period alone, for a total of five in the contest.
UP NEXT
The Aggies will have a quick turnaround as they are back in action tomorrow at Aggie Field Hockey Facility to host the Miami Redhawks for a 3:00 p.m. PT start.
