PISCATAWAY, NJ – The Rutgers field hockey team had its two game winning streak snapped by Fairfield, 1-0, on Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the Rutgers Stadium Complex.

The Stags scored with 20:27 remaining in the first period when Julie Knoblich put the ball past Rutgers goalkeeper Meris Burton (Wilmington, DE). It was the first goal Burton had allowed in over 160:00 minutes of action. Fairfield’s Lauren Pizzi and Nicole Mazzocchi were credited with assists on the play.

Rutgers (3-2) had numerous chances to tie the game in the second half, including a penalty stroke by Jennifer Noon (Shavertown, PA) with 16:50 remaining in regulation. Her shot, however, went wide of the goal, and Fairfield successfully defended two penalty corners on the final four minutes of the second half.

“We had plenty of opportunities,” said Rutgers head coach Liz Tchou. “I thought Fairfield played very well. They were tenacious on defense and made it difficult for us to play our game offensively. This was a good learning experience for our team as we continue to take the steps towards improvement.”

Rutgers and Fairfield both had nine shots on goal. Burton, the BIG EAST Defensive Player of the Week, made seven saves for the Scarlet Knights, who held a 7-6 advantage in penalty corners.

Rutgers returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 13 when they face No. 3 Maryland in the opening game of the Terrapin Invitational in College Park, MD.

Rutgers (3-2) vs. Fairfield (3-2)
Score by period

1 2 Final
Rutgers 0 0 0
Fairfield 1 0 1

First Half
FU Julie Knoblich (Pizzi, Mazzocchi) 20:27
Shots: Rutgers 9, Fairfield 9
Saves: Rutgers (Burton) 7, Fairfield (Thomas) 7
Penalty Corners: Rutgers 7, Fairfield 6