University of Connecticut Athletics
University of Connecticut
(4-3, 2-0)
Villanova
(1-6, 0-2)
Huskies Secure Win in BIG EAST Opener
9/19/2025 5:14:00 PM | Field Hockey
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — UConn women's field hockey secured their first conference win of the 2025 season as they defeated Villanova by a final of 2-1 Friday afternoon.
The Huskies seized an early advantage in the first quarter as Lene Bujes netted the first goal of the game at 11:45, giving the UConn a 1-0 lead. Despite multiple fouls throughout, the Huskies maintained pressure on Villanova, with Keet Castalign and Abby Davidson both forcing saves from goalie Sophie Volkel at 7:15 and 9:15, respectively. The defensive efforts of Natalie McKenna in goal kept Villanova at bay, preserving the Huskies narrow lead as the quarter concluded.
The second quarter began with UConn maintaining a strong defensive presence, despite a penalty corner by Villanova at 17:27 and a wide shot by Addie Froehlich. The Huskies offense intensified late in the quarter, with Julia Bressler's shots at 28:17 and 28:33 being saved and blocked, respectively. The persistent efforts paid off with Abby Davidson scoring a goal at 29:19, extending UConn's lead to 2-0 before the quarter ended.
The third quarter commenced with tension as the Huskies battled to maintain their lead. Despite a green card issued to Bressler at 33:46, UConn's defense was put to the test when Villanova secured back-to-back penalty corners, resulting in a goal by Addie Froehlich, assisted by Molly Zimmerman, at 41:34, narrowing the lead to 2-1. The quarter was marked by several fouls from both teams, but UConn held firm to finish the quarter ahead.
The fourth quarter began with a series of fouls from both teams, setting a tense tone as the Huskies sought to maintain their lead. Olivia McKenna was instrumental in UConn's offensive efforts, initiating a penalty corner at 49:38 and another at 51:48, showcasing her playmaking ability, although Villanova's defense held firm. Despite multiple shots on goal by Milou Heuker, Pien Prins, and Bressler, each attempt was either saved or blocked, keeping the score unchanged as Connecticut secured a 2-1 victory.
Lene Bujes scored the game-winning goal for Connecticut, finishing with one goal on one shot. Bressler recorded five shots with three of them on goal, leading the team in attempts. Davidson added a goal of her own, converting one of her two shots on target.
UConn will travel to Princeton for their next matchup on September 21. The game is set for noon in Princeton, NJ.
Team Stats
Lene Bujes
GOAL by Connecticut Lene Bujes (FIRST GOAL)
11:45
Abby Davidson
GOAL by Connecticut Abby Davidson
29:19
Addie Froehlich
Assisted By: Molly Zimmerman
GOAL by Villanova Addie Froehlich, Assist by Molly Zimmerman
41:34
