On Thursday, Manual’s girls’ varsity field hockey team beat Mercy 4-0 on senior night.
Prior to the start of the game, senior players were honored by freshmen, JV and other varsity players, who formed a tunnel for the players to run through with their sticks. They were then met by head coach Brittany Vencill, members of their family, Athletic Director David Zuberer, assistant Athletic Director Jon Palmer and principal Dr. Michael Newman for a photo. Afterwards, the freshmen, JV and other varsity players performed a small dance skit.
During the first half, Manual’s offense dominated, with most of the action near Mercy’s goal. Mercy’s defense held off the Lady Crimsons, though, as both teams were scoreless at the end of the first quarter. However, halfway through the second quarter, Lola Kopp (#5, 11) scored the first goal of the night, making the score 1-0 for the Crimsons. Manual continued to dominate on the offensive side, but Mercy’s defense stood strong.
During halftime, former Manual field hockey alumna and members of the 2011 girls state field hockey team were honored.
At the start of the second half, both teams came out strong, with action taking place on both sides of the field. However, the Crimsons pulled ahead of Mercy even further with goals by Dawson Packwood (#3, 11) and Kaylise Watson (#7, 12) in the third quarter. By the time the fourth quarter started, Mercy and Manual were still competing fiercely. However, Manual kept receiving corners and then the fourth and final goal of the game was scored by Carmen Maudlin (#2, 12) in the fourth quarter. Shortly after, the game concluded with the Crimsons coming out on top.
“Senior night was so special! It was hard to believe that it was actually happening and that we all have been playing together for four years now. All of the seniors are all super grateful for the team, coaches and parents who worked hard to put everything together,” Julia May (#8, 12) said.
The Lady Crimsons now improve to 7-4-1 and play their next game against Ballard on Tuesday at Ballard. Freshmen starts at 4:30, JV follows at 5:45 and varsity wraps it up at 7.
