No. 8 Field hockey earns 2-0 shutout win over No. 7 Michigan

Photo by Ian Cox, Maryland Athletics

By Andrew Diveley

COLLEGE PARK, MD –– The No. 8 Maryland field hockey team secured a much-needed 2-0 victory over No. 7 Michigan on Sunday, snapping the Wolverines’ 11-game winning streak. The win improves Maryland’s record to 10-5, while Michigan drops to 11-2.

The Terps struck first in the 20th minute, capitalizing on a penalty corner. 

Emma Deberdine’s insertion setup Hope Rose, who fired a low shot that deflected off Michigan’s Abby Tamer and bounced over goalkeeper Hala Silverstein into the cage. Rose’s seventh goal of the season – and the first goal Michigan had allowed in conference play this year – put Maryland up one score early.

“So that was great. I mean, it’s certainly unexpected. The unexpected can be the best plan,” said Terps’ coach Missy Meharg on the penalty corner success.

Maryland controlled much of the first half, outshooting Michigan 3-1, but the Wolverines came out stronger in the second half. 

Michigan dominated possession, attempting eight shots to Maryland’s two. However, the Terps’ defense held firm, led by Alyssa Klebasko. The sophomore goalkeeper made several key saves, including back-to-back stops in the 51st minute.

Despite Michigan’s second-half surge, Maryland extended its lead in the 58th minute. Josie Hollamon scored her fifth goal of the season, taking advantage of another penalty corner. 

A Hollamon shot deflected off a Michigan defender and slipped into the cage, securing Maryland’s victory.

The Terps’ defense, anchored by Rayne Wright, successfully shut down Michigan’s offensive pressure, particularly in the final quarter. The Terps were perfect on penalty corners (two-for-two), which proved to be the key difference in the game.

“Rayne Wright, she has a lot of experience of shutting down key players in defense,” said Rose. “So, I mean, we trust her completely to be able to get the job done, and she has all weekend.”

This win provides Maryland with momentum as they look to close out the regular season and prepare for the postseason.

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