CMU field hockey opens six-game homestand
Central Michigan field hockey coach Cristy Freese has two tries against Missouri State this weekend to earn her 200th win at CMU.
“My feeling about it is that it’s long over due,” Freese said. “I also think on the other hand it’s something to look back on when I’m done.”
Freese will focus on guiding the Chippewas (3-5 overall, 1-1 Mid-American Conference) to a record over .500 in the MAC as it plays the Bears at noon on Saturday and Sunday at the CMU Field Hockey Complex.
They look to stop MAC scoring-leader senior Casey Bayliss, who knows how to share the ball, accounting for with four assists this season.
“Sometimes in scoring there’s things you can teach in terms of skill and then there’s just having a nose for scoring,” Freese said. “When she gets in the offensive circle it just really charges her up and she has to be someone we take care of.”
Freese said the second-ranked scoring offense in the Mid-American Conference also has other players to look out for. Sophomore Hilary Lawless and freshman Sarah Bradley have combined for 11 goals.
Freese said the Bears struggling defense does have their moments.
“Last year when we went down there, I thought their defense and goalkeeper played well and we came out of there with a split.” she said.
The Chippewas look to take an advantage of a six-game home stretch.
“We need to start getting on a roll right now, that’s for sure,” Freese said, “But there’s no guarantees. You’re not going to win just because you’re at home.”
Freese offered analysis on how the team has performed one game away from the midway point of the season.
“I think we have to be more consistent in the offensive end,” Freese said. “We’re either scoring goals in bunches or we’re struggling to score.”
However, she is impressed with the defense that has allowed the second fewest goals in the MAC.
She pointed to freshman back Jordyn Brengosz as a surprise contributor to the defense.
“I think early in the season she was just out there doing the best she could and now I think she has a better grasp of what she needs to be doing and is working better within the defensive unit,” Freese said.
Freese also thought Brooke Sihota has been an important piece as well as the defense as the sweeper, which is the last line of defense before the goalie.
“I think she’s really provided some really positive strength and leadership back there.” Freese said. “I think Brooke is playing at a consistently high level.”
