Northwestern
(5-0)
Louisville
(2-3)
Road Triumph: No. 1 Wildcats Stay Undefeated with 2-0 Victory at No. 9 Louisville
9/13/2024 7:15:00 PM | Field Hockey
EVANSTON, Ill. - No. 1 Northwestern continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 2-0 victory over No. 9 Louisville at Trager Stadium. The Wildcats, now 5-0, earned their first road win of the season, solidifying their strong start with a disciplined performance on both ends of the field.
ROAD DUB ?? #EarnIt pic.twitter.com/qc4stgDITY
— Northwestern Field Hockey (@NUFHCats) September 13, 2024
Northwestern struck early, with sophomore sensation Ashley Sessa scoring her third goal of the season just 11 minutes into the first quarter. The goal, assisted by Elaine Velthuizen, also marked Velthuizen's first career assist. Sessa's goal put the Wildcats ahead and established her as the team's leading point scorer with 10.
Louisville had several chances to equalize, including multiple penalty corners, but Northwestern's defense, led by goalkeeper Annabel Skubisz, held firm. Skubisz made crucial saves, including a standout stop against Izzy Bianco, to keep the Cardinals scoreless.
The Wildcats extended their lead in the third quarter when Katie Jones scored her second career goal off a penalty corner. Assisted by Ilse Tromp, Jones' goal provided a 2-0 advantage and ensured the victory for Northwestern. Tromp's assist highlighted the Wildcats' effective set-piece execution.
Despite a late push from Louisville, including pulling their goalkeeper for an extra attacker, Northwestern's defense remained resolute. Key defensive plays by Tatum Kroon and continued solid goalkeeping from Skubisz maintained the clean sheet for the Wildcats.
With this win, Northwestern improves to 5-0 on the season and will look to build on their success as they face Cornell next. The match against Cornell is scheduled for 4 p.m. CT at Trager Stadium in Louisville, where the Wildcats will aim to continue their unbeaten streak and further their strong start to the season.
Team Stats
Ashley Sessa (3)
Assisted By: Elaine Velthuizen
shot in front of cage
11:14
Katie Jones (1)
Assisted By: Ilse Tromp
penalty corner deflected shot
33:46
