WASHINGTON – Behind the second career hat trick from senior Cayla Andrews, The College of New Jersey field hockey team won its season opener over The Catholic University of America Saturday afternoon. The sixth-ranked Lions win is the sixth straight season opening victory for the program. The game was also the season opener for the Cardinals.
 
Andrews opened the scoring in the first quarter, scoring off a feed from Kayla Peterson. In the second quarter, Andrews scored on a penalty stroke and Peterson scored within a minute to put TCNJ up 3-0 going into the half.
 
Midway through the third quarter, Andrews completed the hat trick. The three goals give Andrews 106 career points, moving her into 20^th place in program history.
 
Maddie Beaumont made two saves in just over 55 minutes before giving way to Dani Britton for the combined shutout.
 
TCNJ outshot Catholic 18-3 in the game, and earned 13 penalty corners to just three for the Cardinals.
 
All seven newcomers for the Lions made their career debuts in the game. Jess Hatch earned a start in the midfield. Kayla Cichlar, Alli Yocum, Emmalee Olsen, Rachel Infantolino, Kileigh Pfluger, and Shannon Decosta all saw action as reserves.
 
The Lions will remain on the road when they travel to Juniata for a game on Sept. 7. Pushback is set for 4:30 p.m.