FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Fairfield University field hockey team fell to 0-1 on the season as they dropped their season opener to Lafayette 3-2 on Friday evening in Easton, Pa.

Lafayette jumped out to an early lead, punching in their first goal less than five minutes into the contest. The Leopards earned a penalty corner, after the initial shot was blocked, Rosie Shanks corralled the rebound and fired a shot on cage for the first goal of the season.

The Stags answered nearly 20 minutes later when Bridget Miles connected with Emma Clark to tie the game at 1-1. But before the end of half, the Leopards had another opportunity off a penalty corner. Lisa van der Geest rocketed a shot right at Caitlin Bennett, but after initially making the save, the rebound dribbled over the line to put the home team back up by one.

Out of the break, the two teams traded possession until Ann Burgoyne was able to tie the game at 2-2. Sam Giordano made a great long pass to Burgoyne who was all alone in front of the keeper and able to put in the back of the net for the tying score.

The tie didn't last long though, as 80 seconds later Rosa Jonckheer shot from the edge of the crease for the third Leopard goal of the game. Lafayette then tried to control possession for the final 20 minutes of the game to keep Fairfield off the board. The Stags managed just one shot in those final minutes and were unable to produce any other quality scoring chances.

Bennett earned the start in cage, making five saves on the night. Her opposition, Katelyn Arnold had just one save as the Leopard defense held the Stags to just three total shots all game.

"I am obviously disappointed that we lost the game, but very happy with the work rate and resiliency of the team to even the score twice," said Head Coach Jackie Kane. "We had some less experienced players step up in big roles, and we are looking forward to playing again in Iowa."  

Up next, Fairfield travels to Iowa City to play Iowa on Friday, September 2 and St. Louis on September 3.