The Appalachian State field hockey squad traveled to Washington, DC on a crisp Saturday to take on the American University Eagles, a showdown that would end the Mountaineers’ flawless start to the season.
A Rocky Start in the Capital
Early in the second quarter the Eagles struck first, capitalizing on a swift attack that left the Mountaineers trailing 1-0.
Undeterred, freshman midfielder Chloe Hook surged forward in the third quarter, leveling the score at 1-1 with a well‑placed finish assisted by Kassie Paul, sparking a renewed surge of energy from the Mountaineers.
Veteran goalkeeper Dakota Anderson stood tall between the posts, making six crucial saves that kept the game within reach and frustrated the Eagles’ attempts to extend their lead.
However, American University’s Sophie Willemse broke the deadlock again at the 56‑minute mark, netting the decisive goal that put the Eagles ahead 2-1, a lead they would hold as the final whistle approached.
With the clock winding down, Appalachian State failed to find the net, and the 2‑1 defeat marked the end of their undefeated streak, leaving the team to regroup before their next test against Queens University of Charlotte on September 9.