Utica Earns Key Conference Win over Hartwick
Utica, N.Y.
UTICA, N.Y. (10/9/10) – Junior midfielder Avion Ashton netted the game-winner 1:54 into the first overtime period to lift the Utica College field hockey team to a 2-1 victory over Empire 8 Conference rival Hartwick College at Charles A. Gaetano Stadium Saturday night. The Pioneers improved to 5-7 overall and 3-1 in conference play and also supported their case for a bid to the conference tournament with a win over the Hawks.
Jessica Ahearn opened the scoring on the day for the Pioneers’ when she netted her fourth goal of the season off a rebound in the 34th minute. Ashton, who was an all-conference selection one year ago, was credited with an assist on the first Pioneer goal, which gave them an early 1-0 lead.
Jen Kaye netted the equalizer for Hartwick (3-8, 1-3 E8) in the 55th minute, her third goal of the season, when she tipped home a shot from the stick of Amanda Barton to knot the score at 1-1.
Ashton’s overtime goal came off a penalty corner from senior Erin Murphy and beat Hartwick goalie Mackenzie Chapman on the lower left side.
UC goalie Monica Storms stopped seven shots, including several key saves throughout the course of the contest.