Penn State field hockey (2-3) defeated Kent State (0-6) 4-1 on the road Friday afternoon. The win was the second for the Nittany Lions this week and this season as they beat Delaware on Sunday.

Penn State showcased its offensive firepower, maintaining control of the ball throughout the game. Forward Sophia Gladieux starred right from the opening whistle, keeping Kent State on its heels as the game opened. Midfielder Sophia Mannino found her first goal of the season on a penalty corner in the second quarter. Gladieux then found the goal three times in the fourth quarter alone and Penn State found their second win of the season.

How It Happened

Penn State opened immediately on offense, as Gladieux shot within the first 30 seconds of the game. The Nittany Lions continued playing aggressively and started fast on offense, with another shot from Drew Taylor. The Nittany Lions offense continued to find holes throughout the turf, and they were awarded a penalty corner that was blocked by Kent State.

Penn State’s offense continued its methodical yet fast approach, succeeding in getting the ball to open players. After some back-and-forth possession from both teams, Kent State took its first shot near the goal that was kicked away by Nittany Lions goalkeeper Lauren Delgado. Although both teams showed strong offensive playmaking ability, the defenses stepped up to keep the game scoreless when the first quarter buzzer sounded.

Taylor maintained possession as the second quarter began, as she was able to get the ball close to Kent State’s goal. Penn State’s offense found light soon after, as Mannino scored her first goal of the season on a penalty corner, putting the Nittany Lions up 1-0 at around the halfway point of the second quarter.

The Golden Flashes responded quickly to Maninno’s goal, quickly moving the ball down the turf. Their efforts resulted in their first penalty corner of the game, which was unsuccessful. Penn State was awarded two more penalty corners back-to-back, and although the Nittany Lions came close both times, Kent State’s defense ultimately kept the ball out of the goal.

Gladieux found her second shot on goal right as the second quarter was winding down, but it was kicked up high and saved by Kent State goalkeeper Lieve Jansen. Kent State quickly found some momentum on offense, but couldn’t finish the job and both teams headed to halftime with the Nittany Lions still up by one.

Penn State was awarded its 10th penalty corner of the game early in the third quarter but it didn’t result in a score. After an official video review, what looked to be Mannino’s second goal was called back by the referees, as the Nittany Lions remained patient on offense. After a continued back-and-forth, Kent State forward Emma Rolston tied the game on a penalty corner.

Nittany Lions midfielder Ella Jennes didn’t take too kindly to Kent State’s goal, responding with her first goal of the game early on in the fourth quarter.

Just a little over a minute later, Gladieux capitalized on the offensive momentum, scoring her second goal of the game. Gladieux then scored her third goal of the game, and Penn State started to pull away up 4-1.

The Golden Flashes weren’t able to respond to Penn State’s offensive push in the fourth quarter as the game closed out 4-1.

Takeaways

• Mannino stepped up in the first half, scoring her first goal of the season on a penalty corner.
• Penn State’s offense really opened up in the fourth quarter with three goals. Just as it happened against Delaware, the Nittany Lions pulled away late in the match.
• Gladieux was unstoppable with a hat trick, an assist, 10 shots, and six shots on goal. She continues to be the lifeblood of Penn State’s offense.

What’s Next?

The Nittany Lions return home to take on Princeton at noon on Sunday, September 15. The game will air on BTN+.