AMHERST, Mass. – A phenomenal defensive effort and Jessica Welch's fourth goal of the season led the 18th-ranked Cardinal to a 1-0 win over host UMass Friday afternoon at the Gladchuck Field Hockey Complex.
The first half saw both teams showcase their defensive prowess as only five shots were allowed in the first 35 minutes of action. Kelsey Bing stepped up to make a clutch save to keep the Minutewomen (4-4) quiet in the half. UMass was unable to collect on three penalty corners in the half as both teams went into the break tied 0-0.
The second half saw the Cardinal (3-4) offense come alive as it posted five shots in the period to force Emily Hazard to make her sole save of the game to keep UMass in the hunt. Jessica Welch broke the tie in the 62nd minute of action by eluding the defense before crushing a shot into the top shelf for her team-leading fourth goal of the season.
The Cardinal travels next to Yale to take on the Bulldogs this Sunday, September 25. Game time is set for 9 a.m. at Johnson Field in New Haven, Conn.