Sports

Andover Scoreless In Semis

Coming into its second New England playoff game after an exciting 4-0 win against Tabor, Andover field hockey took the field ready to face Hotchkiss. “Going into the game we were all really excited to play because Hotchkiss has been a field hockey powerhouse for a long time and we were excited to get a chance to play them,” said Captain and midfielder Kyleigh Keating ’10. After a slow start, Hotchkiss took control of the ball on a deflection from a penalty corner and gained a one-point lead midway through the half. Andover kept a tight defense for the remainder of the half, but didn’t score any goals. “We picked up our play and pressure after they scored but we just could not get a finishing touch on our offensive chances,” recalled Coach Kate Dolan. Andover held Hotchkiss to a one-point lead until twenty minutes remained in the game. Hotchkiss then capitalized on fast break opportunities, scoring another goal and stretching its lead to two. “Credit Hotchkiss for playing a great game,” said Dolan, “It was disappointing to lose but everyone gave their best effort and on that day, Hotchkiss was just a little better.” Keating said there wasn’t any particular reason for Andover’s shortcoming. “There is not really one thing that the team could have done to prevent the loss because we did play well; they just got two goals and we didn’t get any. That’s it,” she said. Despite its fall in the playoffs, Andover field hockey looks back at an extremely impressive season, finishing with a 13-0-1 regular season record, total of 44 goals and eleven shutouts. “This fall was incredible,” said Dolan, “Each of the 19 players gave it their all, and it was an extraordinary blend of talent, skill, speed, poise, unselfishness, commitment and Senior leadership. As coaches, we felt extremely fortunate to coach with such a wonderful bunch of kids – it was a season we all will remember and cherish.” Talent and practice aside, the team credits much of its success to its ever-strengthening chemistry, cooperation, determination and heart. “It was truly a dream season,” said Keating. “We might not have won it all, but this is easily the closest team that I have ever been a part of; all of the girls on the team really got along and we all had a great time together. We really came together as sisters and that is the thing that will stand out the most in my mind about this season.”