Just two and half minutes into overtime against Tabor Academy, Emily Batchelor ’19 netted the ball off a penalty corner to secure a 2-1 win. Andover Field Hockey went on to win 8-0 against Choate, 4-2 against Brooks, and 2-1 against Milton. The team’s record now stands at 8-0.
Andover’s success in all four games can be attributed to its ability to work as a team, according to Kelly McCarthy ’19.
“[What helps us with our success] would have to be our togetherness. Everyone strives to work their hardest for the team and I admire my teammates for always giving it their all in every practice and game for each other,” said McCarthy.
After relying heavily on each other during its overtime game against Tabor, Andover had incredible success against Choate. The team’s eight goals were scored by six different players, including Brooke Keough ’19, who scored two of the four goals during the second half.
“Seeing how [Keough] worked relentlessly to get the ball into our offensive zone helped keep up our energy as a team. Seeing your teammate work that hard makes you want to do the same,” said McCarthy.
Defensive play was also crucial, according to Linda Bibeau ’20 and Lily Rademacher ’21. Goalkeeper Alexa Matses ’18 had 12 saves that were pivotal for Andover’s win against Brooks.
“[Brooks] had a really hard pass straight into the middle of the circle and [Matses] sprinted from one goal post to the other and dove to block the shot. She really saved us that game. It was because of her that we got to take home the win,” said Rademacher.
Against Milton, tight defense and strong goalie play allowed for Andover to maintain its one point lead. Throughout all four games, the team has scored eight of its 16 goals off of penalty corners.
“We [were] doing well with capitalizing on our offensive corners, and switching fields to open up space and lead to fast break,” said Bibeau.
Andover’s four wins have continued the team’s undefeated season.
“I think [our games this week] really proved what kind of a team we are trying to be this fall: one that not only tries to be the very best on the field, but off the field as well,” said Rademacher.
Andover will play St. Paul’s away on Saturday.
