Northwestern field hockey secures two home victories despite missing key players

Northwestern opened its field hockey season with two home victories despite the absence of starters Ashley Sessa and Olivia Bent-Cole. Sessa sat out following international play, while Bent-Cole managed a day-to-day injury. During the August 28 match against VCU, coach Tracey Fuchs utilized a new starting XI, including Lindsey Brown, Sol Martinez, and Jess Freedman. Northwestern secured the win through a set-piece goal and coordinated offense from Aerin Krys and Ella Kokinis. On August 30, the team faced Lafayette and struggled with penalty corner efficiency, finishing with 13 attempts but no scores against Leopards goalkeeper Addison Kahn. Kahn recorded 15 total saves across the weekend, earning Patriot League Goalkeeper of the Week honors for her performance in Evanston. Despite the struggles on penalty corners, Northwestern maintained control in both contests to open the season.

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