Saint Francis Field Hockey Clinches playoff Berth with Dominant 5-0 Victory Over Mercyhurst

A decisive win against Mercyhurst on sunday secured Saint Francis UniversityS first appearance in the Northeast Conference (NEC) Playoffs since 2023, marking a meaningful milestone for the Red Flash field hockey programme. The team celebrated a resounding 5-0 victory on Senior Day, fueled by a stellar offensive performance and a rock-solid defense.

Red Flash Secure Playoff Spot in Style

Saint Francis’s path to the playoffs was paved with a dominant display against the Lakers. The victory not only clinched their postseason berth but also established new program benchmarks for conference wins. “The team really came together today,” a team spokesperson commented. “It was a complete performance on both ends of the field.”

Hager Sparks Offensive Firepower

The game’s momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter when sophomore forward Kylee Hager broke the deadlock, giving Saint Francis a lead they would never relinquish. This initial goal ignited the Red Flash offense, setting the stage for a commanding performance.

Marciano’s Hat Trick Leads the Charge

Sophomore midfielder Sofia Marciano was the offensive star of the day, recording her second hat trick of the season. Marciano’s scoring prowess was on full display, netting goals just before halftime and again early in the fourth quarter – her 15th of the season – extending the Red Flash lead to 3-0. She wasn’t finished there,adding another goal within the final 15 minutes to reach a remarkable 16 goals for the year.

Defensive Fortress and Senior Recognition

Complementing the potent attack was a staunch defensive effort, led by goalkeeper Mia DiGenova, who secured her ninth shutout of the season. DiGenova,affectionately nicknamed “The Fort” by teammates,proved impenetrable,frustrating the mercyhurst offense throughout the contest. Prior to the game, the team honored seniors Chloe Butz, Emilee Myers, Grace Reed, and Madison Waldspurger for their contributions to the program.

Cánepa’s Record-Breaking Assists

Beyond the goals,the Red Flash benefited from exceptional playmaking,notably from sophomore Cruz Cánepa. Cánepa delivered a remarkable three assists, tying the program record for assists in a season previously held by Nikki Snyder. This performance also boosted her career assist total to 21, placing her fourth in program history.Notably, Cánepa is now the only player in Saint Francis history to record three assists in a single game on three seperate occasions.

Program Records Fall

The 5-0 victory over Mercyhurst wasn’t just about securing a playoff spot; it also saw the Red Flash move within one win of the program record for total wins, previously set by the 2014 team (14-3). The team’s seven conference wins also represent a new program standard,surpassing the six conference wins achieved by both the 2012 and 2014 squads.

Next Up for the red Flash

Saint Francis will conclude its regular season with a two-game road trip, beginning Friday at New Haven with a 12 p.m. start time. The team will look to continue its winning momentum and further s

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