CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – Tonight the U.S. Women’s Field Hockey Team drew 1-1 against No. 2 Argentina in front of a large crowd at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. This evening’s match was the first of a four game, multi-stop test series. Old Dominion University will host two matches on June 20 and June 21, with the final match of the series being played at the National Training Center in Virginia Beach, VA on Saturday, June 23.
“Argentina came back very strong in the second half,” said Michelle Vittese (Cherry Hill, NJ). “They are a great team and if you are going to let them knock on your door, they will eventually get one in. Argentina is in our bracket at the Olympic Games so this is a great time for us to work on some things.”
The U.S. played with speed and intensity and controlled the pace of the match throughout the first 35 minutes of play. Despite periods of dominance and multiple scoring opportunities, the U.S. was unable to put the ball between the pipes.
The U.S. was finally rewarded for their efforts at the 51 minute mark with a goal scored by Katie O’Donnell (Blue Bell, Pa). O’Donnell connected with a ball sent by teammate Keli Smith Puzo (Selinsgrove, Pa). A string of penalty corners for Argentina resulted in an equalizer to even the match at 1-1 with 10 minutes remaining. Unfortunately, the late goal by Argentina denied the U.S. of a victory.
The U.S. will face Argentina again on Wednesday, June 20 at 5 p.m. ET at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. Admission is free and open to the public.
All nominations to the U.S. Olympic Team are subject to approval by the United States Olympic Committee board of directors.
USA Field Hockey Release
