Bishop Ireton earns first ever WCAC field hockey win, 2-0 over 'runners

Three games into 2013, the Cardinals have established new standards for the program, including its first WCAC win.

In its second season of varsity WCAC play, the Cardinals (3-0, 1-0) have to be one of the area’s most improved teams. With its third win of year without a loss, Ireton also earned its first ever win in conference play, 2-0 over Elizabeth Seton on Monday.

“I am very proud of team, but I know we are going to continue to grow as players and as a team” said Ireton’s third year coach, Erin Simons. The young program isn’t to the point of overconfidence at this point, but they are noticing that teams they respect have lost to the Cardinals so far in this young season.

Ireton’s Hayley Snell got the Ireton a lead in the first half with 7:51 left to play, her first goal of the year. Grace Fletcher’s team-leading third goal of the year at 15:43 of the second half, assisted by Kelly Mathews, gave the redbirds some margin to work. Anna Fracasso was again rock solid in goal, credited with 4 saves on all four Set0n shots.

“I was playing near the right post, Kelly Mathews passed me the ball from inside the circle and it was a perfect pass” said Fletcher.

The defense rose to the occasion, for while the Ireton outshot the Roadrunners 6 to 4, the visitors had 7 corner opportunities to 4 for the home team.

The home stand continues Friday as the surging Cardinals welcome the Knights of St Mary’s Ryken to Fannon Field. Varsity game time is 4pm, with JV to follow. Ireton’s JV team also advanced to 2-0 with a 3-0 win over the girls of Bladensburg.