Goalkeeper Alex Farrell ’10 anchored a tremendous Andover defense this week, leading the team to two consecutive shutouts in close wins over NEPSAC rivals Brooks and Tabor. After a disappointing loss to rival Loomis Chaffee last week, the Andover team was eager to avenge their loss by beating Brooks. Brooks came into the game with an undefeated record. The match-up was also the first home game of the season for Andover, another reason it was one of the biggest games of the season so far. Andover lived up to the pressure, and the team’s enthusiasm was clear on the field from the opening whistle. “Everyone stepped up to the challenge of playing them,” said Co-Captain Catherine Coppinger ’09. Katherine Sherrill ’10 scored the first goal of the game, a play that started with a corner kick early in the match by Courtney Macdonald ’11. Ambika Krishnamachar ’11 also had an impressive game. “She successfully shut down one of Brooks’ top players in the midfield,” Coach Lisa Joel said, and the defense was unstoppable for the rest of the half. Leading 1-0 to begin the second half, Andover continued their intensity with speed and agility on both sides of the ball. Goalkeeper Farrell had an especially impressive game, with several crucial saves to preserve the shutout and prevent Brooks from tying the game. “I think that winning this game was crucial in getting our momentum back after our tough loss to Loomis,” remarked Coppinger. Andover carried its momentum into Saturday’s game against Tabor. Andover did not disappoint the home crowd, as Amanda Brisco ’10 scored the first goal of the game early in the first half. After the initial goal, Andover effectively kept the ball on Tabor’s half of the field. Despite several opportunities, however, Andover couldn’t sneak in another goal before the end of the half. Brisco scored her second goal of the game to open the second half. The defense was unflappable for the second straight game, as Andover overcame many injuries to pull through with a 2-0 win.
