Box Score

SELINSGROVE, Pa. – The Susquehanna field hockey team played its first home conference game of 2013 against the undefeated and 18th-rankedRangers of Drew University, falling short in a 3-1 contest.

Drew (10-0, 2-0) started the game with three unanswered goals before Susquehanna (6-6, 0-2) put one in the net.

The Rangers came out strong, scoring just outside the first minute of regulation. Forward Sam Barcia connected with midfielder Melissa Boyd on a far cross to take the early lead.

For the remainder of the half, Susquehanna's defense had a solid showing. Senior Nancy Heidt (Saunderstown, R.I./North Kingstown) recorded a defensive save off a shot by Barcia, holding Drew to 1-0 lead at half as Drew outshot SU 16-2 in the opening period.

In the second half, Taryn Murphy gave Drew a 2-0 lead but not before a valiant push from Susquehanna's offense. Murphy was assisted by Brooke Gagliano who later scored the Rangers' third and final goal. Gagliano's score was assisted by senior midfielder Danielle Waleko, a former Crusader and Barcia.  

The Crusaders finally found the back of the net when Rebecca Marion (Wallingford, Pa./Strath Haven) scored off a penalty corner, cutting Drew's lead to two (3-1).   

The senior midfielder, who was assisted by classmate Erica Reichart (Gettysburg, Pa. / Gettysburg Area), had three shots on the afternoon.

Sophomore Katherine Millett (Auburn, Maine/North Yarmouth Academy) had four shots and junior Brodie Ercole (Oakmount, Pa./Lewisburg Area) had two to lead the Crusader offense.

Senior netminder Margaret Ruth (Lewisberry, Pa. / Northern) recorded a season-best 17 saves while playing the entire game.

The Crusaders return to action on the road against Juniata College on Oct. 9 at 4:30 p.m.