Box Score

Behind a pair of second half goals from Allison Evans and Kathleen Sharkey and a sturdy backline, the No. 4 Princeton field hockey team shutout American, 2-0, Sunday afternoon at Bedford Field. The Tigers improve to 10-1, 3-0 Ivy with the win, while dropping the Eagles to 5-8 on the year.

The first half saw a tough defensive battle, as Princeton was unable to capitalize on its eight penalty corners and 9-1 shot differential.

While the offense looked to find a way to get the ball into the back of the net, the Princeton defense was well orchestrated. Led by defenders Kelsey Byrne, Amy Donovan and Julia Reinprecht, the Tigers easily deflected American's offensive drives.

As the defense prevented the Eagles from finding many opportunities in the circle throughout the match, the offense worked to break up the scoreless draw.

In the second half, a Teresa Benvenuti shot was saved by American's goalie Ashley Dalisera at 40:02. Evans would be there to follow through on the deflected shot to score eventual game-winner.

With the momentum on their side, the Tigers continued to pressure the Eagle defensive line. At 58:28, Evans picked up the loose ball at the top of the circle and dished it to an open Sharkey on the left side. Sharkey would make a touch and seal the victory with her 21st goal of the year.

The Tigers would conclude the game holding a 22-2 shot differential, landing 10-1 on frame. Princeton also had a 15-2 penalty corner advantage.

"I was really pleased with how much we dominated the play," said head coach Kristen Holmes-Winn. "I think we really tightened the back and were moving the ball well. We generated some really good opportunities, it was just a shame we couldn't get one in in the first half. I think once that first goal comes it becomes a very different game in the sense that the opposition is chasing .. and I think we saw that in the second half once American kind of opened things up that certainly played to our advantage."

Princeton remains at home next week, hosting Ivy rival Brown on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 12 noon.