University of Connecticut Athletics
University of Connecticut
Fairfield
Huskies Secure 3-2 Win over Fairfield
10/26/2025 2:08:00 PM | Field Hockey
FAIRFIELD, Conn. — The University of Connecticut field hockey team secured a 3-2 victory over Fairfield University , highlighted by a decisive game-winning goal in the fourth quarter.
The first quarter commenced with UConn's Natalie McKenna taking her position as goalie. Early in the game, UConn faced significant pressure from Fairfield, as the home team earned several penalty corners and attempted multiple shots. McKenna made crucial saves, including a key stop against Pilar Mengotti at 2:31. UConn responded with an offensive push, highlighted by a penalty corner from Sol Simone at 5:33, but shots by Lene Bujes and Zita Grigoliet were thwarted by Fairfield's defense. The quarter ended in a scoreless tie, with both teams unable to convert opportunities.
UConn took control in the second quarter with a pivotal penalty kick goal by Julia Bressler at 26:42, breaking the scoreless tie. Shortly thereafter, Fien Hollander extended the lead to 2-0 with a goal assisted by Grigoliet and Simone, capitalizing on a penalty corner at 27:27. Despite multiple fouls, UConn maintained their momentum, ending the quarter with a 2-0 advantage over Fairfield.
The Huskies maintained offensive pressure in the third quarter but were unable to convert opportunities into goals. At 33:23, Bujes's shot was saved by Fairfield's goalie, Payton Rahn. Despite multiple penalty corners, UConn's attempts by Pien Prins and Violeta Francese were thwarted, including a defensive save by Mengotti. The quarter concluded with UConn still leading, 2-0, as neither team added to the scoreboard.
In the fourth quarter, the Huskies secured their lead with a pivotal goal by Bujes at 48:44, assisted by Grigoliet, bringing the score to 3-1. Despite Fairfield's efforts to close the gap, including a goal by Kaelyn Fogelson and multiple penalty corners, UConn maintained their advantage. Avianna Wagner played a crucial role in goal, making key saves to deny Fairfield's late attempts. The game concluded with UConn winning 3-2.
Bressler scored the game-winning goal, finishing with one goal and four shots, two of which were on target. Hollander added a goal, converting one of her two shots on goal. Grigoliet contributed with two assists, facilitating key scoring opportunities. Additionally, McKenna made three saves in the first half, keeping the opposition scoreless.
Their next matchup will see the Huskies hit the road as they travel to face Quinnipiac on October 31 at 3 p.m.
