GLASSBORO, N.J. – The TCNJ field hockey team lost a hard-fought defensive battle against Rowan in the 2022 NJAC Championship game, losing 1-0 on the road Saturday evening.

Led by a swarming defensive performance, the Lions (12-6) neutralized twelve total Rowan (19-1) penalty corners and stifled multiple Rowan shot attempts throughout the game to keep the match competitive and within arm's reach from start to finish.

Goalie Dani Britton set the tone early in the first half with four huge saves that erased quality shot attempts from the Profs. The super senior was assisted by a superb effort from her defensive backline, which played a huge part in the Lions entering halftime tied even despite Rowan doubling up TCNJ on shot attempts, 8-4.

The Lions' saw a couple strong scoring opportunities in the first quarter just miss wide from Carly Cole, and attempts from Sophie Popp and Rayhanah Ahmed in the second fell off target as well.

Despite the Lions defense' best efforts, Rowan finally struck with 6:32 in the third quarter on a penalty stroke by Julia Patrone, who capitalized on the opportunity after being fouled well within the shooting circle.

The goal proved to be all the Profs needed as the Lions offense struggled to generate shot attempts in the entire second half. TCNJ's best chances to tie the match came towards the end of the game when the Lions received consecutive penalty corners chances. The corners generated the lone TCNJ shot attempt in the second half from Jess Hatch, however the shot was saved by the Profs goalkeeper. 

The Lions now await the NCAA Selection Show on tomorrow at 10:30 PM.