The Batten University field hockey team (5-9, 0-4 ODAC) hosted Bridgewater College (8-5, 2-1 ODAC) for an afternoon in ODAC play, falling 2-0 to the Eagles at home.
Prior to the contest, Batten Athletics celebrated Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day, recognizing faculty and staff members from across campus for their continued dedication to supporting student-athletes and the University community.
The Marlins battled throughout the afternoon, with goalkeeper Berkley Miller recording five saves in 60 minutes of action. Katherine Druiett led the Batten offense with three shots, including one on goal, while Landry Meyer added two shots and one on target.
The opening quarter featured a strong defensive effort from the Marlins, as Miller turned away two early scoring opportunities to keep the contest scoreless. Batten generated its first offensive chance in the 11th minute when Meyer sent a shot wide of the cage.
Bridgewater broke through in the second quarter when Kiley Parker scored in the 25th minute off an assist from Olivia Best, giving the Eagles a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.
Batten responded with increased offensive pressure in the third quarter, generating two scoring opportunities in the final minute of the period. Meyer put a shot on goal that was turned away by the Bridgewater goalkeeper before Druiett followed with an attempt that went wide.
The Marlins continued to push for the equalizer in the fourth quarter. Druiett recorded two more attempts, including a shot on goal in the 52nd minute, while Kellyn McCloud added an offensive opportunity shortly afterward.
Bridgewater extended its lead in the 55th minute when Lexi Francis found the back of the cage to make it 2-0.
Batten finished the contest with six shots, including five in the second half, while Miller's five saves helped keep the Marlins within striking distance throughout much of the afternoon.
