The IU field hockey team lost 5-2 to Miami University on Friday. IU struggled on both sides of the ball, as the offense failed to create opportunities and the defense gave up nine shots on goal and five points to the RedHawks.
The highlight of the day for the Hoosiers was their second goal. Sophomore forward Hailey Couch spun around the goalkeeper and found the back of the net for her first goal of the season.
To start the game, the RedHawks jumped out to a 3-0 lead before the Hoosiers found a response from junior midfielder Savannah Bucher. She put in a cross from senior midfielder Jessica Morford to get IU on the board midway through the third quarter.
Ten minutes after getting on the board, IU’s defense collapsed completely. Within the span of 31 seconds, the team allowed two goals, making the score 5-1 with 13 minutes left in the game.
The team's mistakes effectively ended any chance the Hoosiers had to turn the game around and shifted the momentum back to Miami.
The RedHawks controlled each possession, making it difficult for the Hoosiers to keep up. Five different Miami players scored, and the RedHawks improved to 1-2 on the season. IU fell to 1-2 after the loss.
IU head coach Kayla Bashore emphasized trying to alleviate the struggles offensively.
“We told them, as coaches, we can only do so much, but they’re out there playing the game,” Bashore said. “It’s really up to them in trying to figure out what kind of strategies they can use to help each other out and make sure the second they step out on the field, they’re ready to go.”
IU looks to move on from Friday’s loss and will play against Ball State University at noon Sunday. The Hoosiers have defeated the Cardinals in five straight meetings, dating back to 2013.
