Field Hockey Suffers Season-Ending Loss to OWU, 3-0, in NCAC Semifinals

DELAWARE, OH – Ohio Wesleyan came out strong in the first quarter, striking for three goals that would hold up for a 3-0 victory over Wittenberg in the semifinals of the North Coast Athletic Conference field hockey tournament on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at Selby Stadium, putting an end to the Tigers' season. 

The Battling Bishops weren't wasting any time in this one with a conference title on the line, as three different players found the back of the cage at the 11:08, 12:48, and 14:35 marks of the first frame. Ohio Wesleyan, now 11-5 and 8-1 NCAC, advances to the tournament finals for the fifth consecutive season and will play either DePauw or Denison for the title on Saturday.  

Wittenberg, which came into the tournament as the No. 4 seed, ends its season at 6-11 overall and 6-3 in the conference. It was the Tigers' second loss of the season to the Battling Bishops, as an earlier meeting resulted in a 1-0 decision in overtime.

The Tigers, who had a great showing in the latter part of their season, especially against NCAC teams, just couldn't muster up any offense in this one, and found themselves on the defense for most of the match. Ohio Wesleyan took nine shots in the first quarter and 15 total in the first half, to just one for Wittenberg. 

For the game, Ohio Wesleyan tallied a total of 27 shots (12 on goal) to just two for Wittenberg. The Battling Bishops also led in penalty corners, 6-4, and in fouls, 41-40.

Wittenberg goalkeeper Taryn Toburen (Lititz, PA / Warwick) gave it all she had, registering nine saves on 12 shots faced.

"I'm so proud of this team and the work they did this fall," said Head Coach Brighid Kortyna. "They took a tough start to the season and turned it around to make the league tournament. They were gritty and fought for every opportunity."

Written By: Cindy Holbrook