Penn State field hockey (6-0) took down Maryland (4-2) in an overtime thriller 3-2 at Maryland on Saturday.

In the Nittany Lions’ first Big Ten matchup of the year, Sophia Gladieux scored twice, including the game-winner in overtime.

How It Happened

Maryland controlled the game early and kept up the offensive pressure. Penn State’s Brie Barraco kept the game tied, but it was the Terrapins who would strike first. Julianna Tornetta scored off a penalty corner to give Maryland the lead. With just three minutes left in the period, the Nittany Lions answered with a goal of their own coming from Mackenzie Allessie.

Defense showed up to play on both sides of the field through the second quarter. Barraco and Mayland’s Noelle Frost both made huge saves to keep this game even. However, with just two minutes left in the half, Gladiuex sent a rocket past Frost to give Penn State a 2-1 lead heading into halftime.

Penn State’s offense stayed in control as the second half started. Frost made some great saves to keep the Terrapins in this match. Within just a few seconds into the start of the fourth quarter, Maryland’s Nathalie Fiechter tied this game up off a penalty corner. Both teams traded possession, but couldn’t get anything in. We are heading to overtime, folks.

Maryland started the overtime period with a chance to put it away, but Penn State’s Elena Vos made a huge stop to keep them in the game. Toward the seven-minute mark of overtime, Anna Simon led the offensive charge for Penn State and found Gladieux, who sent a backhand rocket into the back of the cage to win the game 3-2.

Player Of The Match

Sophia Gladieux | Midfield

Penn State was not winning this game without Gladieux’s offensive play. She was aggressive and seemed to be involved in every offensive possession for State. Counting her two from this match, Gladieux already has seven goals on the young season.

What’s Next?

Penn State will continue conference play by taking on Iowa at 7 p.m. on Friday, September 24, in Iowa City.