Field hockey loses 3-2 to Louisville in double overtime

Overtime has been commonplace for the Central Michigan field hockey team this season.

Their opening match of the Michigan State Invitational against Louisville Friday was no exception.

The Chippewas lost 3-2 in double overtime, succumbing to their second defeat after regulation in three games.

CMU took the lead twice in the first period, but the Cardinals answered back on both occasions.

“It was a very even game,” head coach Cristy Freese said. “This game was back-and-forth from both ends . . . It was a good game.”

Junior Abby Roth, who Freese called a utility player, scored the first goal in the 16^th minute.

Sophomore Mary Alice Moore also put the Chippewas in the lead momentarily, scoring off a deflection from the left corner in the 21^st minute.

“We knew (after I scored the second goal) we still had to play hard,” Moore said. “Louisville is a good team, so definitely, we had to get more scoring opportunities.”

After four goals were scored in an 11-minute span in the first half, neither team scored in the second.  The defenses remained stout in overtime, forcing a second extra period.

“It was just both teams getting familiar with each other,” Freese said. “Once we did, I think both teams settled down and were able to defend a little better.”

Louisville back Alyssa Voelmle scored off a breakaway drive, 60 minutes after the tying goal was scored, to win the game.

CMU will play either Michigan State or American in the consolation round at 11 a.m. Sunday.