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LOWELL, Mass. – After falling behind by two goals early in the tournament, the California field hockey team staged a comeback and secured a thrilling double-overtime victory against the top-seeded UMass-Lowell. Forward Daniella Rhodes was instrumental in the win, scoring a hat trick including the game-winning goal in the 73rd minute of the second overtime period. The match took place on Friday afternoon at the Wicked Blue Field.
In their second consecutive game against an opponent seeking their first postseason win, the Golden Bears (11-7) displayed their dominance by denying UMass-Lowell. This victory marked their seventh consecutive win and showcased Rhodes’ exceptional talent, as she achieved her second hat trick of the season and fourth of her career.
“I always tell the team that no matter the score, it’s always going to be a one-goal game,” said Donna Fong, Director of Field Hockey Shellie Onstead. “I’m extremely proud that they didn’t panic and managed to come back from a two-goal deficit. It was a different feeling compared to yesterday’s match. In the first quarter, both teams played cautiously, but we gained momentum after their first goal.
Cal ended the day with 20 shots, 11 of which were on goal. UMass-Lowell (14-4) countered with 11 shots, six of which were on goal. Tina Jolly (11-7) delivered an outstanding performance as the Bears’ goalkeeper, making four saves and preventing the River Hawks from scoring after their second goal in the second quarter.
“On the defensive end, we performed exceptionally well against UMass’ challenging system,” added Onstead. “Offensively, every player fulfilled their role, with the forwards being fantastic. Daniella showcased her spectacular talent with the hat trick, and Kitty (Baccanello), Holly (Pears), and Bente (Baekers) all played exceptionally well. In the midfield, Sophie Everett had an exceptional game, and Kiki (de Bruijne) played at a high level throughout the entire match. Overall, I’m incredibly pleased with our performance.”
UMass-Lowell initially dominated possession and had an opportunity to secure the game in the first quarter. In the ninth minute, Isabelle Halters broke the deadlock by deflecting a pass into the net, scoring her sixth goal of the season. Following Halters’ goal, UMass-Lowell appeared to score two more goals, but both were disallowed, allowing Cal to regroup as the first quarter ended.
In the early stages of the second quarter, Madison Leeper increased UMass-Lowell’s lead to 2-0 with a goal in the 18th minute.
Cal’s offense then came to life. The team launched shots on goal from Sophie Everett, Holly Pears, and Rhodes, but struggled to find the back of the net. Nevertheless, Cal maintained a high level of pressure and rarely allowed UMass-Lowell to enter their half. In the 23rd minute, the Bears finally broke through as Rhodes scored her 17th goal of the season from a penalty corner, firing a shot from the top of the circle. Assists were credited to Cato Geusgens and Claire Hind.
Just five minutes later, Rhodes struck again. The decorated player lifted the ball to herself and unleashed a powerful shot to the lower left corner of the cage, securing her 18th goal of the season and equalizing the score at 2-2. After being down 2-0, the Bears outshot the River Hawks 5-1 in the second quarter.
In the third quarter, Marie Oliemans (7-2) replaced the goalkeeper for UMass-Lowell. Cal immediately tested her, as Merel Hanssen took a shot on goal just 50 seconds into the quarter. UMass-Lowell briefly regained momentum in the third quarter, outshooting Cal 5-3. However, in the fourth quarter, the Bears once again exerted heavy pressure on their opponents, finishing with an 8-0 shot advantage. Pears came close to scoring the game-winning goal, with three late shots, but was unable to bypass Oliemans.
In the first overtime period, the River Hawks had a promising opportunity to secure the victory, earning a penalty corner in the 66th minute. However, Cal’s defense held strong and prevented UMass-Lowell from taking a shot. A few minutes later, Halters had another chance to score, picking up a loose ball in the circle, but Jolly made the save.
With the score still tied 2-2 in the 73rd minute, Rhodes once again took center stage. After receiving a pass on the left side of the circle, she skillfully evaded two defenders before shooting from the right side of the wing, finding the back of the net and completing her hat trick.
“I’m thrilled that we managed to put together two complete games,” said Onstead. “I’m looking forward to the day off tomorrow and ready to compete for the championship on Sunday.”
Cal will face UAlbany, the second seed, in the championship game on Sunday. The game is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. PT and will be available with live video and stats for fans to follow.
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