Photo Credit: IU Athletics
DEBORAH TOBIAS FIELD (IUSTV Sports) — The Indiana Hoosiers field hockey team took their time to earn a dominant home victory against Ball State, although both teams came onto the turf quite slowly. After the first quarter, not a single shot had been attempted on goal by either team. Indiana had significantly higher time of possession but struggled to find any scoring opportunities. The Hoosiers were able to stop both of the penalty corners from the Cardinals, as neither team could find much offensive momentum.
In the second quarter, IU was building speed; were not able to find the back of the netthey took four penalty corners but . As the rain started to fall, Ball State struggled to maintain possession and keep the ball out of their territory. The end of the first half promised a competitive game, as both teams would need to stay aggressive.
The third quarter was the major turning point for the Cream and Crimson, as five shots were taken on goal and two corners were added. In the 32nd minute, graduate student Sydney Keld was able to drive an unassisted shot into the net, finally putting a score on the board for the Hoosiers. This was Keld's second goal of the season. This energy shift propelled the team toward the final quarter with their heads high and plenty of motivation.
The fourth quarter reflected an excited Indiana team. The race against time was marked by successful passing and consistent possession. The Hoosiers earned three more penalty corners and were eventually rewarded with a game-sealing goal by senior Maggie Carter. This was Carter's second goal of the season and was unassisted. The cheers were loud as the clock hit zero, and the Cream and Crimson secured the victory at home.
Now Indiana has a nine day gap until their next match, a home game against Northwestern University on September 22nd. This game is IU's first Big Ten matchup of the season.
