Lehigh University
Lafayette
Lehigh suffers disappointing loss to Leopards
10/25/2003 12:00:00 AM | Field Hockey
Easton, PA – Lehigh had a disappointing performance against archrival Lafayette on Saturday, as the Mountain Hawks were defeated 5-1 by the Leopards. The loss leaves Lehigh winless in the Patriot League at 0-5, and 6-11 overall, as Lafayette improves to 12-6 on the season, 2-3 in league action.
Lehigh grabbed the early lead just three minutes into the contest as junior Sheila Clabby found the back of the net at the 32:01 mark, and the Mountain Hawks had seized the early momentum. But that would be short lived as Lafayette unleashed an offensive juggernaut, as the Leopards reeled off four goals in 19 minutes to stun Lehigh and put the game out of reach. Jennifer Stone scored the first two Leopard goals, both assisted by Stephanie Gold, and the early Mountain Hawk lead was quickly evaporated. Emily Goldman and Melissa Farrand then put home two more Leopard goals and Lafayette had the 4-1 halftime lead.
Stone then scored her third goal of the game, giving her a hat trick on the afternoon, which set up the final 5-1 count. Junior Jeanine Hoff got the start in goal for Lehigh and picked up six saves in goal, and she was relieved by sophomore Meghan Gove in the second half, who registered four saves of her own on the day.
Head Coach Julie Mazer was disappointed with the outcome of the game, and was at a loss for words. “I am very disappointed with the way we played today. I expected a great effort from the team, but it did not happen. We had our chances early but could not get anything besides the early goal.” Mazer adds, “Mel Lepko had a very solid game for us. She played very aggressive and sustained her effort all day.”
Lehigh will return to action on Wednesday when the Mountain Hawks host Temple in the home finale of 2003. Game time is set for 3:00 and can be heard live on the Lehigh website.
