The Ball State University field hockey team fell short of a major upset Friday afternoon in its home opener, losing 4-3 to No. 16 University of Michigan at the Ball State Turf Field.
With goals from freshmen Caitlin Maguire and Brittany Hammer and sophomore Hannah Jones, the Cardinals took a 3-2 lead into halftime. In the second half, the Wolverines added goals from sophomore Meredith Way and senior Sarah Wilhite to improve to 2-3 on the year.
After Michigan took a 1-0 lead, coach Annette Payne inserted junior forward Brooke MacGillivary into the game. It was MacGillivary's first action since the second game of the year against Davidson College. Last year's leading scorer had been out with a back injury and had immediate affect on the game for the Cardinals (1-4).
"We were playing not to lose before," MacGillivary said. "We were doing a really good job with that, but I bring intensity and confidence going forward [with the ball]."
MacGillivary assisted on Jones' goal after she stepped in front of a Wolverine pass about 40 yards from the goal. Her shot was misdirected by Jones and found its way to the back of the net to give Ball State the lead for the first time.
The Cardinals were happy with their performance against their first ranked opponent this season. Though the game was important for confidence, Payne said, the team now must put it in the past as they prepare for St. Louis University at 1 p.m. Sunday.
"We have to continue to work hard," Payne said. "Michigan is over with. We have to continue to commit to growth."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
