The Mustangs’ field hockey team lost to the York Falcons in the state quarterfinals on Nov 4. The score was deadlocked at 0-0 for most of the game, until York scored the first and only goal of the game with just under six minutes left. The Mustangs played well, with stellar defense all game. They had multiple chances to put a goal on the board, but unfortunately were unable to finish.
Head coach Anne Steenhoek commented on the team’s loss. “I was really proud of the girls and the effort that they gave throughout that game. If we had to lose, it’s that type of game where they left it all on the field that makes it hurt a little less,” said Steenhoek.
Despite the difficult loss to end the season, it was a very successful campaign for the team, as they secured the district championship with a shootout victory against the Fauquier Falcons.
Steenhoek was still very satisfied with how the team played throughout the game. She believed it was a big improvement over their regional championship performance against Western Albemarle.
“The girls really showed up confident. I felt that we were timid and afraid of Western Albemarle and we talked about that game a lot and how we didn’t want to have any regrets after playing York. I really felt like the girls had some good scoring opportunities all the way through the fourth quarter and believed that we could’ve gotten a goal in. We really made their goalie and defense work,” said Steenhoek.
The Mustangs’ defense played incredibly well, and was able to hold York scoreless for the majority of the game, which was another detail to be proud of.
“I’m incredibly proud of the girls and their hard work this season,” said Steenhoek.
Ultimately, the field hockey team put up another impressive season, with plenty of memorable moments and highlights along the way. Their District Championship-clinching game will be remembered for years to come as one of the most incredible victories in school history, and their 17 game win streak throughout the season was also one of the most impressive feats in recent memory.
