Field Hockey: Late goal gives Pioneer a tie with Skyline (see WLAA photogallery)
The two best teams in the state – and the two teams that met in last year’s Division 1 state finals – faced off for a second time this season on Sept. 28. In a spirited and highly competitive game, Skyline hosted rival Pioneer on a perfect night for field hockey. It was only fitting the game would end in a tie – and with plenty of drama.
After a scoreless first half, both offenses found their strides and scored a combined eight goals in the second half. Host Skyline took a 2-1 lead into the final period but Pioneer scored three times, including a goal with just 1:45 left on the clock, to complete a 4-4 draw.
Skyline defeated Pioneer 4-2 in the season opener. The Pioneers won five in a row, including a 5-0 win over Dexter, before the rematch. The Eagles won eight in a row before facing Pioneer for a second time.
Coco Courtright scored two goals and Sadie Schultz and Cami Wiseman each had a goal for the Eagles.
Teddy Tolbert, Natalie Millman and Grace Grabowski had Pioneer’s goals. Millman also netted two assists. Abby Bowers also had an assist.
Pioneer defeated Chelsea 5-0 on Saturday. Millman had two goals while Lizzie Kinsey, Tolbert and Lily Soldan each scored once. Maddie Grand and Sarah Huffman combined for the shutout.
Pioneer plays at Huron on Monday. Skyline hosts Dexter on Monday and Saline on Thursday.
