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EVANSTON, Illinois — The 16th-ranked University of Iowa field hockey team upset No. 9 Northwestern, 2-1, in overtime Friday. Freshman Sophie Sunderland scored the gaming-winning goal in the victory. The Hawkeyes improve to 10-5 on the season and 2-3 in Big Ten play with the win.
“The team did a good job sticking to the gameplan,” said UI head coach Lisa Cellucci. “We made some huge defensive saves and executed on our penalty corners. I am very proud of the effort, intensity, and urgency that the team displayed today.”
The Wildcats got on the board first scoring in the 19th minute to give Northwestern a 1-0 lead. Iowa was unable to score in the first half despite registering four shots.
It didn’t take the Hawkeyes long to get on track in the second half. Freshman Katie Birch scored off a corner in the 38th minute to tie the game. Junior Melissa Progar was credited with an assist on the play.
Both teams registered five shots in the second half, but solid defense and goalkeeping keep the game tied at the end of regulation.
Despite starting the overtime period short one player due to a green card in the 68th minute, the Hawkeyes found a way to score. Sunderland scored the game-winning goal in the 71stminute when she deflected Birch’s shot off of a corner to secure the 2-1 victory for the Hawkeyes.
Iowa had a total of 10 shots in the contest with Birch leading the way with three. Senior goalkeeper Alexandra Pecora made three saves, while Birch and Chandler Ackers both had defensive saves in the win.
The Hawkeyes continue their road trip Sunday, taking on No. 12 Michigan in Ann Arbor at noon (CT).
