Kent State University
Ball State
Flashes Set to Open MAC Play Hosting Ball State
9/19/2024 2:00:00 PM | Field Hockey
KENT, Ohio - The Kent State field hockey team (0-6) returns to action on Friday, opening MAC conference play against the Ball State Cardinals at Murphy-Mellis Field. Friday's match marks the second consecutive home contest for the Flashes after hosting Penn State last Friday.
About the Flashes
After a busy opening to the season, Kent State has had a week off since last Friday's contest against Penn State, in which the Flashes fell 4-1. Despite the scoreline, the Flashes were very competitive against the Nittany Lions, who checked in this week's NFHCA coaches' poll at number 19. The highlight of the match for the Flashes was the performance of Lieve Jansen in goal. The freshman recorded a season-high 15 saves in 60 minutes of action, including multiple clutch stops in the second half to keep the Flashes in the match. Emma Rolston scored her first goal of the season to knot the match at 1-1 in the third quarter, off of an assist from Maybritt Duwel, before Penn State was able to score three goals in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
Scouting Ball State
Ball State enters Friday's match at 1-3. The Cardinals traveled to Bloomington to face Indiana on Friday, falling 2-0 after two second-half goals from the Hoosiers. Goalkeeper Hannah Johnston recorded 13 saves in the match for Ball State. On the offensive end, the Cardinals are led by Emma Van Hal, who has three goals and one assist in four games this season.
The Series
The Flashes lead the all-time series against Ball State 40-33. Kent State has won 14 consecutive games against the Cardinals, boasting a 19-1 record in the last 20 matchups between the teams. The Flashes claimed a 4-2 victory in last season's conference match.
Follow the Flashes
Be sure to follow Kent State Field Hockey on X and Instagram for more news and information about the team throughout the 2024 season.
