SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – The Slippery Rock University field hockey team lost a close 1-0 decision to No. 6 West Chester University Saturday at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.
 
The victory improves the nationally ranked Golden Rams' record to 11-4 overall and 6-2 inside the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, while The Rock falls to 5-10 overall and 1-7 in PSAC play.
 
While WCU control possession for much of the contest, Slippery Rock's defense was strong all day long as it cleared all nine Golden Ram penalty corners and successfully defended every West Chester shot attempt that occurred in the flow of the game.
 
The Golden Rams' one goal Saturday was fewest scored by the traditional Division II powers in the all-time series history between The Rock and West Chester.
 
The difference in the game came just over four minutes into regulation when West Chester was awarded a penalty stroke that Veerle Hersman was able to convert for her 15th goal of the season.
 
Slippery Rock had scoring opportunities in the form of two shots on goal in the second quarter, one in the third and two more attempts on target in the final 15 minutes, but West Chester was ultimately able to fend off all of SRU's attempts to eke out the one-goal decision.
 
SRU's offense was led by Lucy Hutchinson, Hilary Hoffman, Grace Williams, Coral Piramo and Maddie Orrson – all of whom had one shot on goal.
 
Goalkeeper Leah Riegling turned in another great outing with eight saves over 60 minutes of competition.
 
For the game, West Chester held advantages over The Rock in total shots (16-8), shots on goal (9-5) and penalty corners (9-4).
 
Prior to Saturday's game, Slippery Rock's 2025 senior class of Christina Clymer, Megan Rude, Sammy Graci, Julia Boettler and Madison Shomo were recognized for their contributions to the program over their careers.
 
Slippery Rock returns to competition noon Saturday against No. 6 West Chester University on Senior Day at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium.





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