Andover Girls Hockey concluded its regular season with a 15 game losing streak after two losses against Westminster and Milton last week.
Although the team had a disappointing season, Andover remains optimistic about its last game of the season against Exeter on Saturday. The team hopes that recent its improvements will help them against Exeter.
On Wednesday, Andover took on number one ranked Westminster. The pace of the game was quick, but Andover kept up well.
Andover showed improvements in team unity throughout the season, and passing was one of Andover’s strong points in the game against Westminster.
At the end of the first period, Andover led 1-0.
In the second period, Westminster scored two goals to take a 2-1 lead going into the third.
In the third period, however, Westminster scored a goal early on and surged forward, scoring three more goals during the period.
The game finished in a 6-1 loss for Andover.
“It was not a 6-1 game. We played really well today. We definitely played more connected than in the past. It was after the third goal that we lost our momentum, and they gained momentum, but today we were passing well and talking a lot,” said Amy Morin ’14.
“I think this is the best game we’ve played together as a team. Our biggest weakness was breaking the puck out, we were really rocky with that. But I think we played really well, especially considering that was such a strong team,” said Kelly McCarthy ’16.
A standout moment in the Westminster game was when goalkeeper Sara Merker ’15 stood on her head after blocking a shot. Merker had a great game, saving numerous shots from the opposing team.
Andover took on Milton on February 15 and lost 4-0.
Andover started the game out slowly, allowing Milton to take many shots.
Andover improved greatly over the next two periods, however, and ended up outshooting Milton overall, even though Andover was unable to score.
Andover’s hopes to make a comeback against Exeter.
A bad warm-up and an 8-1 loss hurt Andover’s confidence in its last game against Exeter, but over the season, the team has rebuilt confidence and unity.
“We’re playing a lot more connected now. In our last two games, it was evident we played like a team. I’m remembering back to our last Exeter game. . .we didn’t play well; it was awful. Everyone was trying to do it by themselves, but we’ve changed that,” said Morin.
Exeter’s record has fallen over the season since its big win over Andover. Exeter has recorded only six wins this season.
With Andover’s great improvements in team chemistry, the team is anticipating a great matchup against Exeter this Saturday.
