Oct. 12, 2008

Final Stats

Belen Albanes scored the game-winning goal and recorded assists on two others as Saint Francis (Pa.) shutout the Siena field hockey team 3-0 this afternoon in the Saints' NEC home opener. It marked the fourth time this season that Siena (0-11, 0-2) was held scoreless.

Both teams had several strong scoring chances throughout in what was a physical game which was marred by three cards. However, it was the Red Flash (2-11, 1-1) which made the most of its scoring opportunities.

Following a long cross right to left through the circle, Albanes gained control after a deflection and deked Siena goalie Renee Clavette before beating her five-hole for her fifth goal of the season.

Siena had its best opportunities early in the second half, but could not solve Red Flash goalie Erin Reifsteck, who tallied three saves in earning her first shutout.

Claire Wilkie and Rebecca Reiff added second half goals to run the final margin of victory to three. Wilkie obtained possession out of a skirmish in front of the net, while Reiff one-timed a blast in to the goal. Both scores were each player's first of the season and were set up off nifty feeds from Albanes.

Saint Francis harbored a 13-5 edge in shots and a 7-4 advantage in penalty corners. Kristin McGorty led the Siena offensive attack with a season-high four shots, two of which were on goal.

The Saints head back on the road to conclude their regular season road schedule with a pair of games next weekend in Connecticut. Siena begins that stretch with Sacred Heart on Friday at 4 p.m.