The No. 7 Virginia field hockey team (2-1, 0-0 ACC) defeated Longwood (1-1, 0-0 MAC) at home Sunday afternoon in its first game at Turf Field this season. The Cavaliers bounced back from a loss last week at No. 6 Penn State with early offensive dominance and a series of saves by senior goalkeeper Carrera Lucas.
Upperclassmen led the Cavaliers in creating shot opportunities against a tough Longwood defense. Senior midfielder Greta Ell and junior back Anzel Viljoen moved the ball in the circle, each tallying six shot attempts. However, freshmen midfielder Jacquelyn Wilkins and striker race Wallis scored both Virginia’s goals.
Wilkins gave Virginia a first-half lead with her first career goal, assisted by senior striker Izzy McDonough. Wallis’ tap off a penalty corner secured the Cavaliers’ 2-0 win with five minutes left to play.
The Lancers attempted a comeback after taking just two shots in the first half, but were held to two corners and six shots for the final 35 minutes. Virginia’s defense picked up their first shutout of the year as Lucas made five saves.
The Cavaliers will finish out the homestand next weekend with games Friday and Sunday. They host No. 11 Syracuse in the team’s ACC opener at Turf Field next Friday, Sept. 7 at 4 p.m.
