Field Hockey: Rematch of last year’s state finals features two unbeaten teams

One and done doesn’t appear to be a slogan the Dexter field hockey team is familiar with. The defending Division 1 MHSFHA State Champions have won their first seven games heading into today’s (Oct. 1) showdown with Pioneer, the team Dexter beat in the finals last season.

The Pioneers visit Al Ritt Stadium tonight (5:30 p.m.) without a loss this season. Pioneer (4-0-1) tied Skyline on Sept. 16 but have won three straight tough games against Saline, Huron and Skyline coming into the Dexter matchup.

Dexter also comes into the rematch of last year’s state finals on a roll. The Dreadnaughts improved to 7-0 on the season with a 6-0 win over Mercy on Monday.

But it’s not just that Dexter is winning, but how they are winning. The Dreadnaughts have not allowed a goal this season and have scored 44 goals in their seven games. The 3-0 win over Saline has been the closest they have been challenged in 2020.

WLAA PIONEER VS HURON PHOTO GALLERY

Pioneer’s run has been equally as impressive considering the tough stretch here in the middle of the season. Within 10 days, they’ve had to face Saline, Huron, Skyline and now Dexter. So far, so good with three solid wins for Jane Nixon’s always competitive club.

Pioneer and Skyline drew even on Sept. 16 in a 1-1 tie at Skyline. But this time, the Pioneers defended their home turf with an impressive 4-2 win on Wednesday.

Pioneer led 1-0 after the first quarter but the Eagles tied the game at 1-1 before halftime. The Pioneers scored two and Skyline once in the third quarter. Pioneer added a goal in the fourth period.

Natalie Millman and Lila Harlock led the Pioneer offense as each player scored twice in the win. Zoe Bormet had two assists and Harlock and Ceci Maixner each had one assist.

Ella Roberts made eight saves to earn the win in goal for Pioneer.