The Shippensburg University field hockey team dominated Mansfield University on Saturday for the second time this season, winning by a score of 3–0.

The Raiders remain undefeated in conference play, winning their third straight, with the team record now at 10–1 overall.

Shippensburg scored early on with a goal by junior Kylie Huffman just six minutes into the game and never looked back.

Depth goal scoring has been key to SU’s success this season. All three goals in yesterday’s game came from players who do not typically light up the score sheet.

Saturday’s victory now makes it five straight shutouts for the Raiders. Through 11 games this season, SU has outscored opponents 31–2, totaling nine shutouts and not allowing more than one goal in any match.

Defense has been the greatest strength of the team this year, as the team has had tremendous success keeping opposing forwards from pressuring sophomore goalkeeper Ally Mooney’s goal crease.

Mooney has perhaps the most impressive numbers of anyone in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) this season. She leads all PSAC goalies in goals against average (GAA), saves and shutouts per game. Mooney’s GAA is a staggering .093 per game, with the next best percentage sitting at .437.

SU was able to completely contain Mansfield in the first half, holding the Mountaineers to just two shots over the first 35 minutes.

Shippensburg opened the second half with a 2–0 lead. The 2–0 lead is the most dangerous lead in sports, but with SU’s rigid defense this season, one or two goals has been more than enough to put away its toughest opponents.

Mansfield made a push in the second half, securing some pressure on the Raiders with seven corners, but SU was able to clog up the shooting lanes, creating more chances on the counter attack.

Junior Mary Spisak was able to capitalize and solidify the Raider victory late in the game with her first goal of the season.

SU has an important matchup Tuesday, as it takes on the West Chester University Rams. This PSAC showdown could determine who takes one of the top spots in conference play.

West Chester has hit roadblocks in out-of-conference play this season, but toppled defending PSAC Champions East Stroudsburg University Wednesday. East Stroudsburg is the only team to hand SU a loss this season.

The Raiders (10–1, 3–0 PSAC East) will look to remain unbeaten in east play when West Chester travels to Shippensburg on Tuesday, Oct. 4.

The game is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. at Robb Sports Complex.

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