Central has two tough road games
Kent State beat the field hockey team twice last season on its way to becoming regular season Mid-American Conference champions.
Central will get a chance to avenge both losses this weekend with road games at Ohio today and Kent State Saturday.
Central (4-4, 1-2 MAC) is the only conference team with a .500 or better overall record.
“This weekend could make or break us as far as what we are going to do in the regular season,” coach Cristy Freese said. “We need to play to our potential this weekend.”
Sophomore Danielle Frank will be back in goal against Ohio. She has split time with freshman Sarah Mancuso the past two games and Freese believes she is ready to take over the starting role.
Frank missed four games because of a pulled hamstring.
“Unless the trainers tell me any different, Danielle will be back in the goal,” Freese said.
Ohio is 3-9 overall and also is 1-2 in MAC play.
Chelsea Mearig leads the Bobcats offensive attack with five goals and three assists.
The Chippewas offense will look to take a lot of shots on Ohio goalkeeper, Jennifer Cote who gives up four goals per game but also ranks first in the MAC with 104 saves.
“We hope we can get a lot of shots on goal and get some past her,” Freese said
Central averages two goals per game.
Freshman twin sisters Kate and Amy McGowan have made an immediate impact at Kent State (4-6, 2-1 MAC). Kate McGowan leads the MAC in goals with nine and is second in points scored with 21.
Amy McGowan plays the mid-back position and has helped Kent State record two shutouts this season.
“I am not surprised at all that they are excelling in league play,” Kent State coach Kerry DeVries said. “They are two very talented athletes who play at a high level.”
DeVries said Kent State will have to play well to beat Central.
“Central plays aggressive hockey and are strong on both sides of the field,” DeVries said.
