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Shorthanded Cape hockey beats Smyrna, Lake Forest

Vikings improve record to 9-1
October 14, 2019

Cape field hockey has a deep bench, which was pressed into primetime action last week against Smyrna.

Reagan Ciabattoni was out of the game and in concussion protocol, while Emily Monigle was sidelined rehabbing from hand surgery. Both players were premium starters on last year’s state championship team. 

“We are developing players and moving some others to different positions,” said coach Kate Austin. “I just can’t wait to see what this team can do once we get everybody back.”

The Vikings beat Smyrna 3-0 to improve to 8-1 on the season. Smyrna dropped to 6-3-1. 

First-half goals were scored by Noelle Sabbagh and Bella Conte, both on assists from Cami Smith, and Sam Connors on an assist from Lily Ashby. 

“The first half was the best we have started a game as a team,” Sabbagh said.

“Everyone had to step up their game, and they did,” Connors added. 

“Anyone starting or coming off the bench like me has to make the most of their minutes,” Conte said. “You could just feel the team energy on the field in the first half.”

Marlee Geppert was forced to make two saves early in the game. The Eagles managed five shots on goal and five penalty corners in the game. 

“Lily Ashby went to center-mid to take over Reagan’s position,” Austin said. “Lily just competes and knows how to play, whatever her position. Ella Rishko was all over the place playing center back. Riley Klopp got some extended runs in the midfield, while Abby Kane flashed her speed on attack.”

Shorthanded Cape traveled to University of Delaware’s Rullo Stadium Oct. 12 to play 7-1-1 Lake Forest as part of the Delaware Turf Bowl. The Vikings jumped out to a 2-0 lead on goals by Sabbagh and Kane. The Spartans battled back to tie the game at 2-2 on two goals by Elle Wood before Smith found the cage for the game-winning goal with 2:03 left to play. Cape outshot the Spartans 10-3 in the game. 

The Vikings were set to play at Notre Dame (Md.) Monday, Oct. 14.     

 

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