University of Richmond
Ball State
Malatesta's Hat Trick Leads Spiders To Season-Opening Rout
08/31/2008 | Field Hockey
Aug. 30, 2008
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. - Senior Alex Malatesta recorded her second career hat trick as the Richmond field hockey team defeated Ball State 8-3 in the season opener Saturday.
The Spiders jumped out to a 4-0 lead at the half and led 6-0 before Ball State scored two goals. Then Richmond added two more tallies to take an 8-2 lead against Richmond head coach Gina Lucido's alma mater. Lucido was an All-American for Ball State as a senior in 1994.
"We went into our opening game looking for our strengths to be possession hockey and pressure defense," Lucido said. "I am pleased with the team contribution today and our ability to generate results on the attacking front."
Malatesta also had two assists to give her eight points. It was Malatesta's third-career multi-goal game, but first since her freshman year in 2005. Malatesta's other collegiate hat trick came on Oct. 23, 2005 in a 9-0 win over West Chester.
"Alex Malatesta stepped up today and made her presence known on the attack," Lucido said.
Senior Sarah Schrott scored a goal and had two assists, while junior Megan Thompson, sophomore Natalie Simons and freshmen Kaitlin Peterson and Grace Krafte each scored goals.
"Alex was equally complimented by her teammates, Sarah Schrott, and Grace Krafte who had some standout play," Lucido said. "Becky White really led in the midfield with solid play on both ends of the field."
Richmond plays Miami (OH) on Sunday at 11 a.m.
"We go into tomorrow's game conservative, knowing our need to improve our weaknesses and compete relentlessly against a fierce Miami team," Lucido said.
