No. 1 Maryland field hockey looked untouchable against Michigan State on Friday.
The Terps peppered shots on goal, dominated corners, and ultimately secured a comfortable win over the unranked opponent.
Maryland won 4-0, matching its best start to a season since 2018.
The Terps highlighted their defensive prowess in the win, keeping the Spartans to three total shots while taking 27 of their own, plus 11 corners.
“I think today really showed when we have a positive response, we get the ball back every time, and that’s why I had so many shots on goal, and all around from the forward to the defense,” Aida Ierubino said.
The first goal was from Babs van Hest to move her to seven goals this season.
Just three minutes later, Maddie Vasilios picked up another goal for the Terps with an assist from Kendall Gilmore.
Unlike past games, Maryland had a strong offensive start, highlighted by their second-quarter goals.
“We all bring positive energy, and I think it all just stems from just focusing on ourselves and believing that we can do it,” Maia Adamson said.
With 10 more shots than the Spartans going into the second half, the Terps controlled the game.
Maryland would notch two more goals in the second half, with Ierubino scoring her fourth of the season and Vasilios her second of the game.
“Maddie’s a strong player. She’s a great finisher, and she’s really starting right now to play at her peak,” said Meharg.
A team better known for its defense, the Spartans had allowed only 12 goals in their previous 13 games. Meanwhile, Maryland goalkeeper Alyssa Klebasko has allowed only eight goals with a save percentage of 0.814, ranking her third nationally.
Her ranking, combined with a powerhouse defense headed by the Hollamon sisters Josie and Jordyn as well as Erin Callahan, has really solidified the Terps as a top playoff contender.
While the defense is always on it, Maryland plays with a whole-field defensive strategy, prioritizing the impact and importance of every position on the team.
“I know even if it gets by me and the other forwards, I trust the midfielders, defenders, and the goalkeepers to always make the save,” Ierubino said. “And I mean, 10 goals allowed is amazing.”
Heading into the last four games of the season, the Terps are looking to keep their No. 1 ranking and head into the postseason undefeated.
“We’ve told ourselves it’s really clear we’ve got a bullseye everywhere on our heads, on our hearts, everywhere people are coming in here, and not only that, the other Big 10 teams are fighting to get into the tournament,” said Meharg.
With the next four games being conference play, much is still up for grabs regarding the playoffs.
“Perspective is you want to be number one in November, and October feels good, but it’s not November,” said Coach Missy Meharg.
