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Caitlin Gleason scored a goal and added an assist in the win over Merrimack. |
Easton, Mass. - On a night when fans gathered to honor one of the most successful classes in Stonehill field hockey history, the senior class graciously shared the spotlight with the future of the program, as the Skyhawks scored four first half goals en route to a 5-0 blanking of visiting Merrimack on senior night at W.B. Mason Stadium.
In a scenario befitting of her career exploits, the school's all-time leading scorer, Caitlin Gleason (New Boston, N.H.) got the festivities going with when she knocked in a picture perfect pass from sophomore Jackie Ladino (North Dartmouth, Mass.) just 9:54 into the game.
Stonehill was back it a little more than two minutes later when Gleason and Ladino switched roles, making it 2-0.
The Skyhawks then scored two goals 22 seconds apart as the first half wound down. Sophomore Claire Hourihan (East Amherst, N.Y.) and junior Laura Nimon (Gardiner, Maine) each assisted on each other's tally, pushing the Stonehill advantage to 4-0.
The Skyhawks controlled the ball for much of the half, outshooting the Warriors 10-0 in the half and 15-0 in the game, as the defense stood tall getting excellent performances from senior Kara Brady (Eastham, Mass.) and junior Kerri Sullivan (Goffstown, N.H.).
Senior netminder Dani Ryder (Gloucester, Mass.) played the first 56 minutes of the game before giving way to freshman Courtney Osier (South Dennis, Mass.).
Ladino added the game's final score when she banged home a loose ball out in front of the net.
With the win, Stonehill improves to 14-4 overall and 11-3 in Northeast-10 action. The Skyhawks are in action again on Thursday when they visit Southern Connecticut at 7 p.m.
