TOWSON, MD. — In a dramatic finish, the Sacred Heart University field hockey team claimed its first victory of the season with a 3-2 double overtime win over Georgetown Friday afternoon at the TU FH Complex. Celia Benson delivered the game-winning goal in the 76th minute.

Records:
Sacred Heart: 1-2
Georgetown: 1-2

Leaders:
Blaire Sparks: 2 goals
Celia Benson: 1 goal (game-winner)  
Jaden Ray: 1 assist
Ines Braithwaite: 1 assist
Emma Brayford: 1 defensive save

Goalkeepers: 
Brianna Cooper: 2 saves
Ruby Butler: 2 saves

Of Note:
After a scoreless opening half, Sacred Heart struck first when Blaire Sparks buried a goal off a penalty corner in the 38th minute, assisted by Jaden Ray. However, Georgetown quickly answered to tie it up at 1-1 just five minutes later.

The Hoyas pulled ahead early in the fourth quarter on a penalty stroke goal, but the Pioneers showed resilience. With five seconds left to play in regulation, Sparks notched her second goal of the contest, set up by Ines Braithwaite and Holly DeAngelo, to force overtime.

Both teams traded chances across two extra periods. Sparks nearly ended the game in the first overtime with a shot off the post, while SHU goalkeeper Ruby Butler came up with clutch saves to keep the game alive. Finally, in the 76th minute, Benson broke free and fired home the decisive goal to seal the 3-2 win.

Sacred Heart was outshot 21-14 but made the most of its opportunities, putting nine attempts on target. Sparks paced the offense with five shots and two goals, while Benson added three shots, including the golden goal.

In goal, Brianna Cooper and Butler split goalkeeping duties and combined for four saves. Senior Emma Brayford also registered a defensive save to deny a Georgetown chance in the fourth quarter.

Up Next:
The Pioneers return to action on Sunday, September 7, as they conclude their weekend road trip at Towson at noon.