CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The St. Mary’s College of Maryland field hockey team solidified their place in the 2024 United East Conference (UEC) Field Hockey Championship Tournament following a 3-0 victory over Wilson College on Wednesday, October 16. The Seahawks improved their record to 5-9 overall and 3-0 in the UEC, while Wilson College fell to 9-3 overall and 2-1 in conference play.
Key Highlights
St. Mary’s College’s victory was powered by junior forward Emma Watkins (Frederick, Md./Linganore), who scored two goals, and junior midfielder Josie Shermeyer (Harrisburg, Pa./East Pennsboro Area), who contributed four points with a goal and two assists. The Seahawks’ defense also remained strong, securing their second consecutive shutout behind the efforts of first-year goalkeeper Sophia Kent (Chesterville, Md./Gunston), who recorded four saves.
First Half
The Seahawks wasted no time getting on the board, taking an early lead at 7:57 in the first quarter. Shermeyer sent a well-placed pass into the circle, where Watkins controlled the ball and fired it into the back of the cage for her first goal of the game. Despite being held without a shot in the second quarter, St. Mary’s College maintained their one-goal lead heading into halftime, relying on their defensive strength to thwart Wilson’s attempts at equalizing.
Second Half
St. Mary’s College extended their lead at the end of the third quarter when Shermeyer set up Watkins once again. This time, the play started on the right side of the circle, where Shermeyer found a wide-open Watkins, who calmly slotted her second goal past Wilson’s defense to make it 2-0.
The Seahawks capped off their dominant performance with a final goal in the closing seconds of the game. With 19 seconds remaining, senior captain Charlotte Horn (Schnecksville, Pa./Northwestern Lehigh) connected with Shermeyer, who found the net just inside the left post, sealing the 3-0 victory.
Defensive Performance
The Seahawks’ defense played a crucial role in the win, with Kent turning away all three of Wilson’s shots in the fourth quarter to preserve the shutout. Wilson’s attack, led by Jill Ahlgren and Brea Kelso, was limited to two shots each, but they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
On the other side, Wilson’s goalkeeper Erin Sullivan made just one save, as St. Mary’s College edged Wilson 8-7 in total shots (4-4 on goal) and held a 6-4 advantage in penalty corners.
Player Highlights
- Emma Watkins: Scored two goals, matching her career-highs of two goals and four points for the third time this season.
- Josie Shermeyer: Recorded career-bests with two assists and four points, and added her first goal of the 2024 season.
- Sophia Kent: Secured her second consecutive shutout with four saves.
Wilson College Struggles
For Wilson College, the loss marked their first in UEC play this season. Despite strong efforts from Ahlgren and Kelso, they were unable to break through St. Mary’s defense. Sullivan’s limited activity in goal contributed to the Phoenix’s defeat, as the team struggled to generate offensive momentum.
What’s Next
St. Mary’s College will return home for two more key matchups this week. First, they will face Meredith College (3-7) in a non-conference match on Thursday, October 17, at 5 p.m., which will also serve as Senior Night. Then, the Seahawks will take on UEC rival Keystone College (5-6, 1-1 UEC) on Saturday, October 19, at 3 p.m. during the school’s annual Hawktoberfest celebration.
