Traveling to Rhode Island this week, the UConn field hockey team goes head-to-head against the Providence Friars at 3 p.m. After steamrolling through Quinnipiac, all momentum stays on the Huskies’ side.
Placed at No. 5 after shutting out the Bobcats last Friday, UConn continues to rise in the rankings every week. Taking over the No. 1 rank is every team’s dream and putting the brakes on now is unlikely.
Reflecting on the two in-conference rivalries, everything is one-sided, favoring UConn. Looking to add another win under their belt, Connecticut owns a 37-9-3 record against Providence. After a four-game losing streak from 1989-1990, the Huskies never looked back, going on a 22-game win streak since.
Craving for a win streak of their own, the 5-8 Friars ended their losing streak last year to Connecticut with a 2-1 nail-biting victory. Fighting to find a win, Providence has lost their last five games, playing all but one away. With all odds stacked against them, pulling an upset is challenging.
The Huskies have a solid chance this weekend of beating the Friars. Forcing players into taking tough shots, the team is no stranger to deconstructing the opposing offense. Saving 39 shots so far, scoring on goalkeeper Natalie McKenna is tough.
Deep diving into UConn’s offense, several players contribute to the growing efforts. Watching out for forward Sophie Perschk is a must. Putting up four goals in the last three games, the forward leads the team to victory alongside Juul Sauer.
Seeing less scoring and more playmaking, Sauer has opened the playing field for more opportunities. Connecting with several teammates throughout the season, the freshman assisted two goals in the past two games. Seeing the goal only once between the University of Albany and Villanova, Sauer is due for a big game. Against Quinnipiac, the forward pressured the keeper, taking three shots with two on goal.
Julia Bressler and Isabel Soeters continuing a hot streak may also happen. Taking advantage of opportunities and scoring goals, the two have knocked it out of the park. Putting up five goals in five of the past six games, Bressler’s production continues to ramp up. Making four goals and adding a hat trick to her resume, Soeters went from taking corners to playing a major role in recent games. Thriving on the offense, the momentum continues to stay with the rising freshman.
Not missing a single shot on goal within eight matches, Sol Simone keeps the goalies on their feet. Whether it is one shot or four, Simone is relied on for her accuracy.
When it comes down to the final five meetings, there is no slowing down for Connecticut. However, taking on Providence is the first step.