Temple University Athletics
DECESARIS LIFTS THE OWLS OVER SAINT JOE'S, 3-1 TO ADVANCE TO THE FINALS OF THE A-10 FIELD HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS
11.7.03 | Field Hockey
Less than a week ago, Temple suffered a 2-1 home loss to the Hawks, (Nov.1) to set up the rematch of the two teams in A-10 Championships semifinals today. Temple the 2 seed will meet the 1 seed the Richmond Spiders (17-3), who defeated West Chester (6-13), 3-0 in the first semifinal contest.
The win improves the Owls' record to 11-10, 5-2 in A-10 play, while the Hawks fall to 7-12, (3-4 A-10). The 11 wins also ties a personal high set by the 2000 Temple squad (11-11 overall) for the most wins in a season during the 11 year stint of head coach Lauren Fuchs.
Temple freshman forward Lindsay Holman (2003 A-10 All-Conference selection) opened the scoring just over two minutes into the game off a pass from junior Andrea Duva giving the Owls a 1-0 lead.
The Hawks' Katelyn O' Brien followed with a goal at the 12 minute mark to tie the game 1-1.
DeCesaris scored the winner off an assist from fellow captain Haley Dervinis (2003 A-10 All-Conference selection) at the 30 minute mark giving the Owls a 2-1 lead at the half. DeCesaris added an unassisted goal in the 40th minute to seal the win.
Owls goalie Erin Conroy had two saves while the Hawks goalie Courtney Huff posted eight saves.
Temple out-shot Saint Joseph's 18-6, and held an advantage in penalty corners, 9-7.
This is the sixth time Temple has advanced to the A-10 final and the first time since 2000. The Owls
previously won A-10 crowns in 1991 and 1994.
Temple was handed a 2-1 road overtime loss to nationally ranked Richmond on October 24. The A-10 Championship game is schedule for Saturday(1p.m.) at Saint Joseph's Finessey Field.
