Westwood Field Hockey Foiled by Clockers

 The Westwood field hockey team fell just short in Ashland Friday, dropping their second straight 1-0 decision.

Junior goalie Delaney Russell was lights out for Westwood all afternoon, recording 18 saves to anchor a stout Wolverine defense.

"We talk a lot and everyone is really supportive," Russell said. "They work so hard to try and make sure the ball doesn't come close to me and that truly boosts my confidence."

Russell held the Clockers scoreless until midway through the second half when their offense was finally able to sneak the ball by her as well as the tenacious Westwood defense.

Junior sweeper Molly Powers contributed immensely to the defensive effort, single-handedly denying a two-on-one and a three-on-one break.

"The thing about our defense is they never panic in times like that," said coach Angela Wilson. "That one girl who's looking at four Ashland girls says 'bring it on' and the other girls tackle back and it balances out for us."

On the offensive end, the chances were there throughout the game for
Westwood, however they came up just short on numerous attempts.

"The timing just wasn't there for us today," Wilson said. "Each situation is a little different but sometimes the ball would hit our feet in front of the net or sometimes we just weren't in the right spot at the right time."

Westwood recorded 20 shots on goal including 12 in the second half but couldn't find the back of the net with any of them.

"Certainly we want the goal and the desire is there," Wilson said. "It's just putting all the pieces together to put it away, that's what is missing in every situation."

Westwood has scored just two goals in its first four games and looks to bounce back with a second straight non-conference win Monday at Natick.