Lansing Sun

On a sunny Friday afternoon at Ralph Young Field, the Michigan State field hockey team faced a challenging match against sixth-ranked Maryland. Despite leading 1-0 late into the third quarter, the Spartans fell to the Terrapins with a final score of 3-1.

The game marked Senior Day for Michigan State, where they honored their senior players: Jillian Bonczewski, Emma O'Neill, Ellie Rutherford, and Ellie Wheatley. Head coach Helen Knull expressed pride in her team's performance despite the loss. "We knew Maryland was a really good team, and we knew we were really going to have to play disciplined and stay with our game plan," she said. "I think their second goal took the wind out of our sails, but overall, I'm really proud of the effort today."

Michigan State took an early lead when freshman Lilian Knorr scored her third goal of the season just before the end of the first quarter. However, Maryland's offense surged late in the third quarter with two goals by freshman Ella Gaitan within minutes. The Terrapins secured their win with an additional goal by Fleur Knopert early in the fourth quarter.

Despite Maryland's pressure throughout much of the game—demonstrated by their 5-0 advantage in corners and 6-1 in shots during the first quarter—Spartan goalkeeper Lyra Gavino made seven saves.

Reflecting on Senior Day celebrations, Knull praised her seniors: "They are the heartbeat of our program and I think everybody looks up to them." She added that while it was a great celebration having their families present, there is still more hockey left to play this season.

Michigan State will continue its season as they travel to Mount Pleasant for a match against Central Michigan on Sunday.