Spartans Take Down Hawks, 4-2

Sept. 6, 2014

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The No. 16 Michigan State field hockey team improved to 2-1 on the year Saturday afternoon, defeating the Saint Joseph's Hawks by a score of 4-2. Weather was a factor during the game, with temperatures reaching the upper 90's. The Spartans played a season-high 19 players in order to remain fresh throughout the contest.

"It was great to get our first road win today," said MSU head coach Helen Knull. "Rotation and subbing was important for us. It was hot, so we had to make sure everyone was hydrated and ready. When our players came off of the bench, they did a great job keeping the level of play up. "

Senior forward Abby Barker led the charge with two goals in the win. The Columbus, Ohio native got the scoring started early when she converted a corner in the sixth minute. Barker later added another goal off a corner in the 41st minute. With the two goals off corners today, MSU now ranks first in the Big Ten in this category.

"One of our goals going into the game today was executing out of the corner," said Knull. "We scored on two of our corners today, so obviously that's a huge step up for us."

With her two goals today, Barker is now seventh all-time in Michigan State scoring.

"She's a two time All-American, she's All-BigTen, and she's our go-to on the forward line," said Knull. "So far this year, she has not disappointed in her ability to be consistent in every game."

Senior forward Allie Ahern, and junior forward Claire Johnson also recorded goals for the Spartans in the win. Both players both now have two tallies on the season.

The Spartans return to action Sunday afternoon to take on the American Eagles. Game time is set for 12 p.m. on the campus of American University. Fans can follow along at aueagles.com/sports/w-fieldh/2014-15/boxscores/20140907_iphc.xml

Next Event

Players Mentioned

Allie Ahern

Abby Barker

Claire Johnson