GWYNEDD VALLEY, Pa. — Gwynedd Mercy University edged the Cedar Crest College field hockey team in a tightly contested match, 1-0, at the GMercyU Athletic Complex on Wednesday evening.

The first quarter began with the Falcons actively pressuring Gwynedd Mercy's defense, as junior Courtney Gibbons (Allentown, Pa./Parkland) executed two penalty corners in quick succession, but both shots, including those by junior Reagan Ferst (Hazleton, Pa./Hazleton Area) and senior Olivia Horninger (Friedens, Pa./Northern Lehigh), were thwarted by the home team's defense. The Falcon's goalkeeper, junior Shelby Heater (Lehighton, Pa./Lehighton Area), demonstrated resilience by saving multiple shots, including attempts from sophomore Allyssa Seifert and senior Mackenzie Reed. Despite Heater's efforts, Gwynedd Mercy managed to break through at 9:50, with Reed scoring the opening goal, assisted by junior Lillie Uttenreither, giving the home team a narrow 1-0 lead at the end of the quarter.

As the second quarter commenced, defensive efforts were highlighted by Cedar Crest's Heater, who made a crucial save against a shot by first year Gianna Radcliffe at the 22:36 mark, holding the score steady. Despite numerous fouls from both teams, the quarter concluded with no additional changes to the scoreboard, maintaining Gwynedd Mercy's slight edge. The Falcons' defense remained vigilant, ensuring no further penetration from the opposing side.

The third quarter began with Cedar Crest immediately on the offensive as Gibbons earned a penalty corner at 30:46, followed by a blocked shot attempt from junior Sydney Jeker (Sciota, Pa./Pleasant Valley). Heater made pivotal saves against shots by Seifert and Radcliffe, maintaining a tight defensive stance. As the quarter progressed, junior Carly Piciullo (Brick, N.J./Brick Memorial) had a scoring opportunity at 40:51, only to be thwarted by Gwynedd Mercy's goalkeeper, junior Nikki Williams, keeping the scoreline unchanged at 0-1 by the end of the quarter.

The fourth quarter commenced with a series of fouls from both teams, reflecting the high stakes and intensity of the match. Gibbons attempted to shift momentum with a penalty corner at 54:25, but the Griffins' defense held firm. In a crucial moment, Piciullo had a chance to equalize the score for Cedar Crest with a shot at 58:31, but it went wide, leaving the match tense until the final whistle.

Heater recorded eight saves in the full 60 minutes of play, facing nine shots on goal. Piciullo contributed defensively with two shot attempts, one of which was on target. Jeker also added two shot attempts from her midfield position. Horninger registered one shot on goal during her time on the field.

Reed led the Griffins with a critical contribution, scoring the game-winning goal and taking seven shots, three of which were on target. Goalkeeper Williams played a pivotal role in the team's defensive success, earning a shutout with two saves over 60 minutes. Radcliffe was a constant threat on the offensive end, recording five shots with three on goal. Uttenreither added to the team's offensive efforts by providing an assist.

In their next game, Cedar Crest (2-5 overall) will travel to face Lycoming College on September 20, with action commencing at 11 a.m. in Williamsport, Pa. Gwynedd Mercy University (2-4 overall) will return to action on Saturday September 20, at 12:00PM versus Ramapo College.