Sept. 22, 2006
IOWA CITY, IA – The University of Iowa field hockey team (5-5, 0-1) was defeated in overtime by Michigan (5-5, 1-0) during the Big Ten Conference opener 2-1. Sophomore Lauren Pfeiffer scored the Hawkeyes only goal of the game which was assisted by junior Kadi Sickel.
Before the start of the game a moment of silence was held in honor of former Hawkeye Nancy (McLinden) Carr, who was killed in a tragic car accident on May 7, 2006. There were approximately forty friends and family members of Nancy’s in attendance. The moment of silence was very emotional not only for the friends and family members but also the Iowa players and coaches.
During the first 15 minutes of play Lissa Munley, Iowa goalkeeper, was tested with a number of shots. She was able to save five shots that were blasted her way, but the sixth shot snuck past her for the first goal of the game. After a timeout was called by Iowa’s Head Coach Tracey Griesbaum, the Hawkeyes took the field with a newfound energy. They marched down the field and took four shots in short amount of time. On a penalty corner during the 32nd minute Sickel pushed the ball to Pfeiffer who smashed the ball past the Wolverine defense tying the score 1-1. The score remained tied throughout the half.
During the second half, the Hawkeyes were very aggressive and were moving the ball extremely well. Iowa out-shot Michigan 6-0 and out cornered them 4-1 during the second half, but the Hawkeyes were unable to get the ball into the goal. The score remained tied 1-1 at the end of regulation and the teams were headed for overtime.
In overtime, Iowa was able to get the first two shots off but were unable to convert. During the 82nd minute of play Michigan forward Lucia Belassi took a pass from Mary Fox and scored the game winning goal.
Iowa returns to action Sunday at 1 p.m. (CDT) against Ohio State at Grant Field. Ohio State has a record of 6-0 and are currently ranked No. 6. Also, immediately after Sunday’s game Grant Field will be rededicated to Dr. Christine Grant.