The No. 2 North Carolina field hockey team (4-0) defeated No. 15 Princeton University (1-1), 2-0, on Sunday in Louisville. The Tar Heels escaped the ACC-Ivy League Conference Crossover undefeated.
Because of their relentless offensive pressure and defense presence, the Tar Heels secured a shutout victory.
UNC started the game with steady pressure, dominating possession from the get-go. The early exchanges displayed defensive strength on both sides, with both teams unable to break through the back line.
In the first quarter, a shot by junior midfielder Jasmina Smolenaars was saved by Princeton’s Robyn Thompson, while Princeton’s Beth Yeager had her shot blocked by North Carolina’s defense.
The Tar Heels ramped up their offensive efforts. Standout player junior forward Ryleigh Heck repeatedly tested Princeton’s Thompson, who was forced to make several crucial saves.
In the 20th minute, North Carolina earned two penalty corners but couldn't convert, as senior forward Lisa Slinkert’s shots sprayed wide. Despite UNC’s offensive pressure, the game remained scoreless.
Smolenaars finally found the back of the net in the 31st minute, scoring the first goal off a rebound from a penalty corner. Six minutes later, sophomore forward Charly Bruder doubled UNC’s lead, capitalizing on a deflected cross to score North Carolina’s second goal.
Despite some attempts from Princeton late in the period, senior goalkeeper Abigail Taylor and the defense stood strong, holding the Tigers scoreless as the third period ended with UNC ahead by two goals.
In the final quarter, the Tar Heels looked to extend their lead but could not convert.
