University of Richmond
No. 3 Maryland
Field Hockey Falls To No. 3 Maryland
09/28/2008 | Field Hockey
Sept. 28, 2008
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - No. 3 ranked Maryland, fresh off a 4-2 win over No. 1 Wake Forest, defeated Richmond 7-0 on Sunday.
The Spiders, who had defeated No. 14 ranked American on Friday, were down 2-0 at the half, before the Terrapins (9-1) netted five-second half goals.
"The weekend remains a positive step for Richmond field hockey," Richmond head coach Gina Lucido said. "We saw today where we aspire to be, and how the experiences of risk taking will turn to success in our future."
Maryland's Katie O'Donnell, Nicole Muracco and Susie Rowe each scored two goals, while Mary Reilly had one.
"Our ability to continue to compete against one of the nation's best teams was a step this team needed to take," Lucido said. "We played until the final whistle today. Although the score indicates this game was not a success in the record books, I believe playing against the best will equip us with the mental and physical discipline needed to bring back the A-10 title to Richmond."
The Spiders still have two more non-conference games against nationally ranked ACC opponents this week, playing at No. 8 Virginia on Wednesday at 6 p.m. and at currently No. 1 ranked Wake Forest next Sunday.
The Wake Forest game will conclude a four-game stretch against ranked opponents as the Spiders prepare for their Atlantic 10 opener on Oct. 10 against Massachusetts.
"Emily Straniero stepped in and played with absolute poise and intensity, she gave a big glimpse of her future impact on this program," Lucido said. "Jacki Raithel came in and made her presence known against a stellar Maryland attack penalty corner unit. I am very proud of this team. Our eyes remain on the prize."
Raithel made five saves in 29 minutes, while senior Becca Weaver made nine saves over the first 40 minutes of action.
