11/2 – Andover: 5, Cushing: 0
Field Hockey delivered another outstanding performance on Saturday, securing a shutout victory over Cushing Academy (Cushing) to maintain its undefeated season. Earlier in the season, the team faced challenges converting goals on corners, but it worked diligently to turn this weakness into a strength. With this solid win, it now looks ahead to playing against its long-time rival, Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter), and preparing for the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) playoffs as the top seed. The team’s success up to this point has helped them stay focused and manage pressure.
Regan Driscoll ’28 spoke on Molly Driscoll PG’25’s cognitive decision-making during the game. She also mentioned how Co-Captain Ellie Parker ’25 has been an essential contributor as a goalie by not only making impressive and important saves but also communicating with her teammates very well.
“Molly had strong plays and was making smart decisions throughout the game. Ellie Parker also had a strong game communicating from the backfield and making some clutch saves,” said Driscoll.
Vanessa Hall ’28 praised Lucy Parker ’26 for effectively transitioning the ball despite the weather as well as Regan Driscoll for her consistent ball movement. Their skillful play helped ease defensive pressure and secure the shutout.
“I think Lucy stood out because, even though it was really cold, she transitioned the ball. Same with Regan; they play the same position and transitioned the ball well. They helped a lot on defense by getting it upfield once we regained possession,” said Hall.
Hall mentioned that, in the practices leading up to the Cushing game, the team focused heavily on reaching loose balls and outrunning their opponents to gain possessions. They also worked on corners, which paid off by helping Andover score multiple goals against Cushing.
“In practice, we focused on beating opponents to the ball, especially in 50/50 situations, out-running them. We carried that into the game and won a lot of balls. We also practiced our corners, which led to some scores against Cushing,” said Hall.
Hall highlighted the team’s strengths in the game, including individual movement, exploiting gaps in Cushing’s defense, quickly transitioning the ball up the field after defending, and working together to limit Cushing’s scoring opportunities.
“We moved the ball well in and out of pockets, which are gaps in the other team’s defense, transitioning it upfield effectively. Everyone came back to help on defense, so the other team had few opportunities,” said Hall.
Hall also mentioned that in preparation for Exeter, the team has been watching films to help them concentrate on being more aware on the field, understand the opponent’s positions, and note key players.
“After watching film today, we focused on being more aware of who’s around us and keeping track of the players we’re marking. We’re working on that this week to prepare for Exeter,” said Hall.
Meg Stineman ’25 spoke about the team’s goals as it heads into both Andover/Exeter (A/E) and the NEPSAC playoffs, emphasizing the need to stay grounded during this pivotal point in the season. She highlighted the importance of approaching each game with focus and enthusiasm to finish the season on a high note.
“I think our main goal going into the NEPSAC and into A/E is that we stay grounded in who we are as a team. We have to approach every game with the energy and grit to win, no matter the team we are playing. We are very excited to play these games and cherish the last moments of our season,” said Stineman.
Girls Field Hockey will play Exeter at home on Saturday.
