WAYNE, N.J. — The Cedar Crest College field hockey team fell to William Paterson University by a score of 4-0 on Wednesday night at Wightman Stadium. 

Cedar Crest began the first quarter with junior Shelby Heater (Lehighton, Pa./Lehighton Area) positioned as the goalkeeper, indicating a defensive focus from the start. Both teams maintained a strong defensive stance throughout the quarter, with no goals recorded by either side. The first quarter concluded with a scoreless tie, reflecting a balanced start to the matchup.

The Falcons initiated the second quarter with a strong offensive push, generating two penalty corners by senior Olivia Wanner (Lyons, Pa./Kutztown Area) at 19:20 and 22:03. Senior Olivia Moyer (Cortlandt Manor, N.Y./Walter Panas) capitalized on the latter corner with a shot on goal, but sophomore Grace Jenkins (Bloomsbury, N.J.) saved the attempt. Despite a wide shot by Pioneers' sophomore Ali Stoner (Branchville, N.J.) near the quarter's end, the score remained unchanged. Cedar Crest maintained pressure throughout the quarter, closing it with a 0-0 score against the Pioneers.

The third quarter started with William Paterson taking control, as Stoner scored at 34:13, assisted by sophomore Courtney DiPrenda (Pompton Lakes, N.J.). Just a few minutes later, Stoner added another goal, this time with help from first-year Giuliana Pasquarella (Bensalem, Pa.) and sophomore Julia Dennehy (Norwalk, Conn.), extending the home team's lead to 2-0. The Falcons responded with offensive pressure, earning penalty corners and a shot by Wanner that hit the post at 44:41. Despite increased efforts, Cedar Crest concluded the quarter without a goal, trailing the Pioneers 2-0.

In the fourth quarter, Pasquarella scored at 49:16, assisted by junior Jada Jacobs (Mount Laurel, N.J.), marking the first goal of her season. Stoner extended the Pioneers' lead at 52:32 with her sixth goal of the season.

Cedar Crest's defense, led by Heater, responded with crucial saves against multiple attempts, including shots by DiPrenda and sophomore Sofia Russell (Spring Lake Heights, N.J.). Despite these efforts, the Falcons was unable to close the deficit, concluding the game with a 4-0 loss.

Pasquarella made a strong impact with a goal and an assist, showcasing her offensive contributions. Stoner stood out by scoring three goals, including one game-winner, and notching a hat trick. Jenkins delivered a solid performance, securing a shutout with one save during her 60 minutes on the field.

Heater recorded four saves over 60 minutes for Cedar Crest. Moyer registered a shot on goal, contributing to the team's defensive efforts. Wanner took one shot, while junior Carly Piciullo (Brick, N.J./Brick Memorial) played a key role in maintaining the defensive line.

Looking ahead, the Falcons (2-8 overall) will travel to Chambersburg, Pa., to face Wilson College on Saturday, October 4 at 12:00 p.m. for their first United East Conference game of the season. William Paterson University (2-6 overall) will host Stevens Institute of Technology on Friday, October 3 at 6:00 p.m.