Spartan Field Hockey Posts Win In Final Non-Conference Game

Oct. 17, 2006

EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State field hockey team defeated Central Michigan, 2-0, with an overpowering offense led by freshman Floor Rijpma and senior captain Ashley Pernicano in Tuesdays game against Central Michigan. Rijpma posted the game-winner for the Spartans at 17:43, with Pernicano adding another goal for MSU at 53:43, for the final margin.

Michigan State came out charging with 16 shots on Chippewa goalkeeper Danielle Frank, compared to the four Spartan keeper Stephanie Yuhasz faced. Rijpma got MSU on board midway through the first period off a penalty shot. The penalty was one of six taken by Michigan State in the first half.

The Green and White continued to dominate offensively in the second period, with five penalty corners and 13 shots. Pernicano tipped in the Spartan's second goal off a Geraldine Raynor penalty shot to put Michigan State up, 2-0, for the remainder of the game.

"Today was a very good day for Michigan State field hockey," said head coach Rolf van de Kerkhof. "The team did an excellent job in executing the game plan, and we were able to capitalize on our chances."

The Spartan offense posted 29 shots compared to the six taken by the Chippewas. Rijpma and Pernicano led the team with shots taken, tallying 12 and nine respectively. Frank posted 17 saves in goal for Central Michigan.

"We would like to use today's performance in preparation for the Hoosiers on Saturday," said Van de Kerkhof. "We remained patient with our play, which allowed us to create scoring opportunities."

MSU will host No. 13 Indiana in its final home game of the season on Saturday at 1 p.m. The Spartan's six seniors will also be honored at the game as they play in front of a home crowd for the final time of their careers.