Catholic University of America

SELINSGROVE, Pa. - The Catholic field hockey team earned another Landmark Conference victory on Tuesday evening as they took on Susquehanna. Maddie Pennisi and Tess Hake scored for the Cardinals, leading them to a 2-1 victory over the River Hawks.

Susquehanna had a strong start to the game, taking the first shot about a minute into game action. Catholic took a few minutes to find a groove, but gained some possession, with Lauren Keast taking the first shot that was saved by the River Hawks' goalkeeper Taytum Lombardi.

It was Catholic who struck first in the second quarter. After earning two crucial penalty corners, the Cardinals were awarded a third. Maddie Pennisi inserted the ball, sending a strong pass to Caroline Cristella. Cristella then passed to Katie Flynn who took a shot. Pennisi found her way back into circle action and was waiting in the perfect spot to tap the ball quickly past the goalkeeper and put the Cardinals on the board. Flynn and Cristella both earned assists on the goal and Catholic stayed up 1-0 heading into the break.

Catholic continued to dominate the pace of play in the second half, and in the 36th minute, they struck again. The River Hawk goalkeeper took a step away from the goal to stop a pass in the circle, it was then that Tess Hake snuck the ball into the left side of the goal to give the Cardinals a two goal advantage. Anna Cusumano earned the assist, her second of the season. 

Early in the fourth quarter, Catholic earned another penalty corner, taking two quick shots to give the Susquehanna goalkeeper two quick saves. The Cardinals had some solid opportunities, but the River Hawk defense stayed strong.

With under 10 minutes remaining in the fourth, Susquehanna earned two straight penalty corners. They took a few shots, and finally capitalized in the 54th minute of play with a goal from Jada Thompson.

The River Hawks had a few more opportunities, but they were stopped by Camryn Lowman and the Cardinal defense. Lowman finished the game with seven saves, bringing her season total to 66. Despite Susquehanna's best efforts, Catholic secured the 2-1 over the River Hawks.

Maddie Pennisi is now tied for second-most goals on the squad alongside Katie Flynn, each of whom have four. 

The Cardinals are now 8-7 overall this season and 6-1 in Landmark Conference play. Tonight's victory brings Catholic's series record to 16-9 over Susquehanna. This is the Cardinals first win over the River Hawks since 2023.

Up next, Catholic will continue its road week with a game at Scranton on Saturday, October 24. The Cardinals are scheduled to play at noon against the Royals.