CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton field hockey team came up short in a physical Little East Conference showdown on Saturday evening, falling 2-0 to the University of Southern Maine at Dave Wolk Stadium.
 
The Basics
• Final Score: University of Southern Maine 2, VTSU Castleton 0
• Location: Dave Wolk Stadium – Castleton, Vt.
• Records: USM 8-8 (2-1 LEC) | Castleton 5-8 (1-2 LEC)
 
How It Happened
The Spartans battled toe-to-toe with the Huskies through a scoreless first half, holding their ground defensively behind a solid effort from goalkeeper Zoe Martin. The senior turned aside four first-half shots, while Jess Smithson added a defensive save to keep the contest deadlocked heading into the break.
 
Southern Maine finally broke through late in the third quarter after being awarded a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute. Jaigan Boudreau converted on the chance to give the Huskies the lead.
 
Castleton continued to pressure in search of the equalizer, but the visitors added an insurance tally with under four minutes remaining to seal the 2-0 result.
 
By the Numbers
• Martin finished with eight saves in a strong showing between the posts.
• Smithson tallied her 11th defensive save of the season.
• The physical matchup featured seven total cards, including four against the Spartans.
 
Up Next
The Spartans stay home for another LEC contest, hosting Plymouth State University under the lights at 7 p.m. on Tuesday.