WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. - August 31, 2024 will remain an historic date for Penn State Harrisburg field hockey, with the team competing in its first NCAA contest in program history. The Lions made their debut a memorable one, shutting out Lycoming 1-0 at a rainy UPMC Field on Saturday afternoon. 

Sadie Cook earned the distinction of netting the program's first-ever goal - the contest's lone marker that proved to be the game-winning score. After 42 scoreless minutes, Cook beat Lyco goalkeeper Isabella Bobe in a one-on-one situation following a Rachel Lane assist with 2:29 left in the third quarter.

The Lions (1-0) remained aggressive to begin the fourth, with Lane getting off an attempt before the Warriors (0-1) earned a penalty corner with 14:10 remaining. The home team was awarded a penalty corner with 7:21 left to play but the Penn State Harrisburg defense was stout and did not allow a Lycoming shot in the final period. 

Bobe turned away late looks by Lane and Alexis Nasuta but Penn State Harrisburg controlled the time of possession, kept the Warriors from mounting a comeback in the final minutes, and secured the program's first win in dramatic fashion. 

NOTABLES

- Saturday's contest was Penn State Harrisburg's first game in program history. 

- Cook's game-winning goal was the first of her collegiate career.

- Lane, a second-year player for Penn State Harrisburg, recorded her first career assist.

- Lane and Natalie Rocuskie got off a team-high five shots for the Lions. 

- Goalkeeper Macenzie Mulholland made five saves to earn the victory. 

- Penn State Harrisburg outshot Lycoming 17-9 overall and 8-6 in shots on target.

- After Lyco got off eight shots in the opening half, the Lions held the Warriors to just one attempt in the final 30 minutes. 

- Lycoming earned eight penalty corners, while Penn State Harrisburg finished with four. 

WHO'S NEXT?

The Lions celebrate their first-ever home game by hosting FDU-Florham for another non-conference tilt on Wednesday evening. Push back is set for 6 p.m.

STAY CONNECTED 

Fans can keep up with Penn State Harrisburg Athletics all season long on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Youtube using the handle @pshbgathletics.