PRINCETON, N.J. – Despite a 10-save performance from goalie Ruby de Frees, the University of Pennsylvania field hockey team took a loss in its first game under new head coach Scott Tupper, falling to No. 2 North Carolina Friday afternoon, 6-2, at Princeton University's Bedford Field.
 
The Tar Heels' staunch offensive attack proved why they were chosen as second in the country entering this season.
 
Quaker Notemeal
* Julia Ryan and Honor Roberts were the goal scorers for the Quakers.
 
* Riley Thomson and Lucy Mangat recorded their first assists of the year.
 
* de Frees recorded 10 saves, a collegiate career high.
 
* North Carolina led Penn in shots on goal 18-8.
 
* Five Tar Heels scored at least one goal, with Charly Bruder leading the way with two.
 
How it Happened
The Tar Heels jumped out to an 2-0 lead quickly in the first quarter, attacking right from the get-go. Penn's defense adjusted accordingly in the second quarter, not allowing another goal for the rest of the first half. de Frees totaled five of her 10 saves in the second quarter as both teams failed to score a goal in the period.
 
However, after the halftime break North Carolina quickly extended its lead, scoring two more goals.
 
Penn responded with a goal from Honor Roberts to end the period. Julia Ryan then added another goal for the Quakers as the team began to pick up some offensive momentum, now only trailing by two. The Tar Heels were able to pull away, though, scoring the game's final two goals in the last 13 minutes to close out the 6-2 victory.
 
Penn looks to respond on Sunday against Old Dominion at 11 a.m., the game also taking place at Princeton.

For the latest on Penn field hockey, follow @PennFieldHockey on X and on Instagram, and on the web at PennAthletics.com.
 

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