Andover Field Hockey continued its strong start to the season with yet another stellar defensive performance, as the squad produced another shutout. On Saturday the girls triumphed with a 2-0 win over Loomis Chaffee. Andover came out strong with an early goal by Kyleigh Keating ’10 just two minutes into the game, setting the lead 1-0. Just after a corner, Keating scored from the right side of the field by firing a shot to the far corner of the net. After the early goal the team had its bursts of energy but was unable to score for the rest of the half. In the last ten minutes of the game, Andover stepped up its game by playing with great intensity. The play and passing seemed effortless. As Co-Captain Kaitlin Gaiss ’09 said, “Our team did a great job with controlling the ball and being aggressive both offensively and defensively.” In the last quarter of the game Marianna Walsh ’11 scored to secure the lead and put the game out of reach. Brooke Van Valkenburg ’11 had a perfect cross circle pass from the wing to Walsh ’11 who then put the ball in with ease. Although Loomis had many scoring opportunities and shots on goalie Shannon McSweeney ’11, the young goalie turned aside each shot. “McSweeney had a lot of action in our defensive circle but [McSweeney] kept the shutout going” said Colleen Flanagan ’10. McSweeney, along with the other defenders, was consistently coming up with success in high-pressure situations. Loomis was a strong opponent but it was “our energy, aggressiveness, and effort which ultimately beat Loomis,” explained Gaiss. “Although our skills are there what put us over the top were our heart and hustle” continued Gaiss. Both Gaiss and Co-Captain Kaitlyn McInnis ‘09 agree that overall the strong effort and great team chemistry are having an extremely positive effect on the team’s record. “Our team is just starting to mesh really well together and I’m proud of everyone.” Gaiss boasted of her teammates. Andover continues to build team chemistry as it ultimately looks to surpass last year’s end result of a semifinal finish in the New England tournament. PA has a tough week ahead with two upcoming home games, Thursday against Brooks and Saturday versus Tabor. Over the past few years, Brooks has had the run of success, except for last year, which resulted in a 1-1 tie. “We tied them last year which was big, but this year a tie game just doesn’t cut it,” explained Gaiss.
