Page 164 - Rutgers Field Hockey 2019
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Freshman forward Rachel Houston made her first career goal during the game, and what a game to
make it in. She has been a top player this season with several assists but never a goal. This time it was
junior midfielder Katie Larmour who assisted Houston for the game-tying goal.
This goal was only made after a goal by the Tigers in the first 5 minutes, and its pressure did not let up
once during the game. Princeton had a total of 10 shots, while six of them were on goal, and they had
five penalty corners to top Rutgers’ one corner. In terms of stats, the Tigers had the upper hand, but
junior goalkeeper Gianna Glatz was a key player. Glatz made five saves this game, and they all
corresponded with the number of corners for Princeton.
In last year’s game against the Tigers, Glatz was even more impressive. She had a total of eight saves
against Princeton's 13 total shots. In that same game, the Knights only had two shots, and only one was
on goal. While Glatz may have had a semi-easier game than previous, she still put in the work needed
to solidify another win for Rutgers. The game-winning goal came from junior midfielder Gracey Butsack
that also had her first goal of the season. Neither Houston nor Butsack started in the game, but they
definitely finished it.
“It was kind of nerve-wracking,” Butsack said. “Because we kind of messed up the corner that was
supposed to be called, so we had to quickly change it. We played it out, and we all had to switch
positions, but I was kind of like get in there and do what I needed to do and try to make the ball go
into the goal.”
This mentality was definitely shown in their gameplay. The Knights took advantage of opportunities and
commanded the field more than last year. Since Nov. 2, 1977, the Tigers have gone undefeated on
their home field, but this year was different.
This game goes to show that it means more than a win on their record. It shows how much time and
effort Rutgers has put into the game. While the Knights have had a slow season so far, it just goes to
show how well the team can do when put to the test.
“This is a win that just proves to the team that they can beat anybody,” Civico said. “It gives them a lot
of confidence, and Princeton’s a team that can go far. I know that they’re going to be competing in
the NCAA tournament. It’s a benchmark, and I think (Rutgers) can beat anybody. This was great
preparation. They know they need to work hard and continue to get better, but I think it’s a great
win.”