Box Score

FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- A late goal in regulation and another score midway through the first overtime period spoiled the Fairfield University field hockey team's season opener, as Virginia Commonwealth came from behind to post a 2-1 win at University Field this afternoon.

The Stags dominated the game in all aspects, but stellar play by VCU goaltender Laura Baker came the visiting team tied in the game throughout the first half. Fairfield outshot the Rams by an 8-1 count with Baker having to make seven saves to keep the game scoreless at halftime.

The intermission did not change much for the Stags as they continued to apply pressure. Midway through the second half, Fairfield finally broke through against Baker as Melanie Leo sent a ball toward goal from the top of the circle. Emily Janis redirected the ball past Baker into the lower right corner, putting the home team in front by a 1-0 score.

Trailing by a goal, Virginia Commonwealth increased its offensive pressure, especially in the closing minutes. The Rams were awarded a penalty corner with under five minutes. Fairfield goaltender Jennifer Utz made the initial save, but VCU's Alaina Vernetti controlled the rebound and sent the ball back into the goal for a 1-1 tie.

Both teams had opportunities in the final few minutes as both defenses scrambled to control the wide-open play by the offenses. However, both goaltenders made saves in the final minute to send the game into overtime.

The Rams ended the game in the 78th minute when Rosan van Eijkelenburg deflected a free hit by Flore van Dessel, which beat the Stags defense before it had a chance to set up following a foul.

Baker finished the game with 11 saves, while Fairfield goaltender Jennifer Utz tallied a pair of saves.

The field hockey returns to action on Saturday, August 30 when it hosts The College of the Holy Cross at 11 am. The game will be played at University Field.