Mustangs hustle hard to defeat much improved Hopkins team
Don't let the score mislead you; this was a much closer game than the score indicates as a much improved Hopkins team held the Lady Mustangs to just two goals in the first half, but in the end, Millbrook's overall athleticism, power and ability to finish overpowered the Hilltoppers from New Haven. Hopkins had one especially dangerous player, a left wing who caused great consternation in the first half as she single handedly ran the ball down the left numerous times and set up some pretty dangerous crosses that her team mates were unable to capitalize on. But once our defense made the necessary adjustments, we were able to close her down. Throughout the game, however, the Hilltoppers moved the ball well, and did a fine job switching fields, keeping our defense spread. But once we started reading those cross field passes, our interception rate increased as well, setting up some exciting fast break opportunities. Hopkins earn 14 corners to Millbrook's scant 5, however, Steele-Norton would notch another hat trick to keep things balanced.
Millbrook's speedy left wing would notch her first goal (after hitting the post on a well executed corner shot at 13:00) at 9:45 as Chapman crossed the ball and Steele-Norton pounced and scored; assist for Chapman. The Hilltoppers would respond with a flurry at their end with Nelson making a great save in goal at 8:35. On the next play, Millbrook would score off a scrum in front of goal, Burdis shot and Fallon's quick lefty stick scored off the rebound. Assist to Burdis.
Anthony began the second half with a fine run down the right and cross which we were unable to capitalize on. At 26:17 Steele-Norton would score an unassisted goal off a scrum in front of goal. Hopkins' goalie was agile and aggressive; she would come way out which took us some time to figure out, but as testimony to the team's maturity, it didn't take them long to figure out how to beat her. Burdis would score from the top to make the score 4-0, then Anthony would tip in from the right to make the score 5-0. With 15 minutes left in the game, Millbrook's substitutes all got well deserved playing time. Hopkins would score on a well-executed corner shot, and would score again off another corner. Nelson would make several key saves as there was a flurry of Hopkins' shots late in the second half. Steele-Norton would score her third goal at 4:15 off a hit from the top of the circle by Chapman; assist to Chapman. Roemer, who played most of the second half, had a very fine game at left midfield. The entire team played hard throughout and never lost focus, skills we need to hone as we approach New Englands.
