No. 9 Penn State scored four goals in the first half and never looked back as they topped the Wildcats 5-0 in State College, Pa. on Sunday. The Nittany Lions’ win improves them to 7-4 (1-1 Big Ten) and drops Northwestern to 3-6 (0-2 Big Ten).
The loss to the Nittany Lions is NU’s second straight Big Ten road loss and fifth straight loss overall.
The Cats’ offense seems to be the main reason the team is struggling, as NU was held scoreless for the third straight game. Also, the Cats have not converted on their offensive opportunities when given the chance. NU earned three penalty corners early in Sunday’s game but was unable to convert on any of them.
Even though the Cats offense has struggled lately, the team’s goalies continue to impress.
After goalie Emily Kyle gave up four goals in the first half, freshman Katie Lynch got a chance to show her skills. Lynch held Penn State to one goal in the second half and recorded five saves for the game.
“Katie prepared well at practice and knew that in making the switch that she would rise to the occasion,” coach Kelly McCollum said of Lynch’s performance.
Lynch did indeed rise to the occasion just as her coach predicted. Lynch’s groundbreaking success in her first career appearance showed the depth that the Cats have at the goalie position.
Not only did NU get a spark from its freshman, but its contribued veterans as well. Senior Cassie Miller returned to action for the Cats after missing the previous game with an injury.
Miller was able to provide the Cats with veteran leadership and energy. McCollum was happy to see Miller back in the line-up.
“I think that our attack was really missing her last week and that Cassie has rested her injury and is back very strong for the team. I was very happy at what she was able to bring to the table for our team on the field,” McCollum said.
NU hopes to build on its success on the defensive side and add some offensive success as it plays two home games this weekend in Evanston at Lakeside Field.
The Cats are in action Friday at 3 p.m. against Iowa and Sunday against Providence at 1 p.m.
Reach Cleyana Mayweather at [email protected]
