DEDHAM, MA — Northeastern clinched a hard-fought victory against Monmouth on Diversity Equity Inclusion game day at Dedham Field, bolstering their record as they head into the final game of the regular season.
The Huskies’ persistence and teamwork paid off in the 3-1 win, marking another highlight in a promising season for the team, extending their winning streak to eight games. It elevated the team’s record to 11-6 overall.
“We use everyday to continue to get better,” said Northeastern head coach Pam Spuehler on her team’s key to maintaining consistent performance. “We don’t focus on the past. What’s next? We continue off the momentum.”
The first quarter was scoreless, but Northeastern struck first in the 22nd minute, utilizing a powerful penalty corner play.
Grad student Lauren Rowe fired a shot from the top, with assists from both Caroline Sweeney and Maria Armaganian. However, Monmouth retaliated, as Jess Tucker managed to equalize with a shot down the middle in the 29th minute, sending the teams into halftime tied 1-1.
Coming back for the second half, the Huskies appeared reinvigorated, pressuring Monmouth’s defense from the start. Freshman Juana Gonzalez-Peyru capitalized in the first minute of the third quarter and deflected a shot off the cage, banking her first goal of the season and placing Northeastern back in the lead.
“Our focus has been on game management,” Spuehler said. “Whether we are a goal up, down, tied, what do we have to do differently and focusing on that has allowed us to take care of the ending of the game. ”
Key blocks and interceptions made by the Huskies’ defensive line forced multiple turnovers from the Hawks. Dynamic midfielder Alex Mega connected to Lara Taylor with the pair weaving passes together throughout the field. This allowed Sweeney to find the back of the net, batting in a well-placed shot to give Northeastern a 3-1 lead.
Northeastern’s senior goalkeeper Kristi Merashoff anchored the defense, making five crucial saves throughout the game. Monmouth continued to apply pressure, earning a penalty corner in the 57th minute, but the Huskies remained impenetrable. Merashoff saved a shot from Monmouth’s Anna Moors, preserving Northeastern’s lead and securing the victory.
The Huskies hope to sustain their drive and finish the regular season on a high note in their final game as they travel to take on Hofstra. The win Friday also guaranteed the Huskies a spot in the CAA playoffs this season.
“Complete team focused atmosphere,” Spuehler said about the squad’s commitment. “Putting in the work, watching film, doing things outside of what we ask has made this team better.”