EMU's field hockey team ran into a powerhouse Wednesday night at home, falling to nationally ranked Mary Washington.  The Royals lost 11-0 to No. 15 UMW, sliding to 2-8 overall with the non-conference decision.

The Eagles, who already had big wins over three other ODAC schools this season, used their speed to jump ahead quickly, scoring three goals in the first 10 minutes.  They built an 8-0 lead late in the first before EMU had their best scoring chance of the night.

In the final minute of the half, the Royals pushed the ball in front of the cage and started peppering shots.  Lorraine Armstrong (Greencastle, Pa./Greencastle-Antrim), Julie Burkhardt (Perkasie, Pa./PA Cyber) and Megan Bishop (Blooming Glen, Christopher Dock) each had chances within a few seconds span, but UMW's goalie was up to the task.

Despite the deficit, the women kept pushing late in the second.  The earned a corner in the final minute and had a pair of shots, but were again denied.

Kelsey Troyer (Lancaster, Pa./Lancaster Mennonite) played well in between the pipes, making 11 saves and intercepting passes to break up a number of other UMW attacks.  Sophomore Janae Kauffman (Harleysville, Pa./Christopher Dock) had a pair of defensive saves.

Armstrong finished with three of EMU's six shots, all on goal.  Alyssa Mautz (Hampton, Va./Bethel), Burkhardt and Bishop had the others.

The Royals return to conference play this Saturday, hosting Washington and Lee.  Game time is 1:00pm as Eastern Mennonite also celebrates Homecoming and the team holds Senior Recognition.