WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — Lycoming College secured a 2-0 victory over the Cedar Crest College field hockey team on Saturday at UPMC Field, scoring both goals in the fourth quarter.

The first quarter opened with a strong defensive display by the Falcons, as junior Shelby Heater (Lehighton, Pa./Lehighton Area) made crucial saves at 3:01 and 9:28 to keep the Warriors off the board. Lycoming applied pressure with multiple penalty corners, but the Cedar Crest defense remained resilient, blocking a shot and forcing several wide attempts. The quarter concluded with both teams scoreless, largely due to Heater's key interventions in goal.

The second quarter began with a flurry of defensive efforts from the Falcons, highlighted by first-year Maddie Farace's (Fairfield, Pa./Fairfield) crucial defensive save at the 17:31 mark following a shot from Lycoming senior Halie Woodring. Cedar Crest's defense remained stout despite multiple penalty corners and shots from Lycoming, with Heater making key saves, including a standout save on a penalty shot by senior Riley Marines at 29:30. The quarter concluded with the score still tied at 0-0, showcasing the Falcon's resilient defensive stand.

The third quarter opened with a defensive stand by Cedar Crest, highlighted by Heater's saves against shots from Lycoming's senior Tayah Bauer and junior Carmen Hannon at 36:48 and 38:21, respectively. Despite Lycoming's persistent offensive pressure, including multiple penalty corners executed by senior Katie Loughran, the Falcons' defense held firm. First year Taylor Dotter (Northampton, Pa./Northampton Area) made a crucial defensive save at 44:21, ensuring the quarter concluded with both teams scoreless.

In a tightly contested fourth quarter, the Falcons' defense faced sustained pressure from the Warriors, highlighted by two crucial saves from Heater at the 56th and 57th minutes to keep the visitors in the match. Despite these efforts, Lycoming capitalized on their offensive momentum, with Hannon scoring the opening goal at 51:16, assisted by junior Loghan Shelly. The Warriors solidified their lead with a late goal from first year Laurel Fite at 59:12, securing a 2-0 victory.

Heater recorded 11 saves in goal, including three in both the first and second quarters. Farace contributed defensively with one defensive save, helping to limit the opposition's scoring chances. Dotter also added a defensive save, showcasing the team's effort to prevent goals.

Junior forward Hannon led the charge for Lycoming, scoring one goal from five shots, including the game-winner. Fite also found the back of the net, contributing to the team's offensive efforts with three shots on goal. Sophomore Lacy Eckard supported the attack with an assist, marking a key play in the team's strategy.

Looking ahead, the Falcons (2-6 overall) will host Immaculata University on Saturday, September 27 at 10:00 a.m. in Allentown, Pa. Lycoming College (4-2 overall) will host Lancaster Bible on Wednesday, September 24 at 7:00 p.m. in Williamsport, Pa.