Kent State women’s field hockey (10-8) lost 2-1 at home against Longwood University (8-9) to finish 5-1 in Mid American Conference play in the regular season.

“This was our first overtime game of the season and I was definitely proud of the grit and commitment the team showed,” coach Kyle Desandes-Moyer said.

The Flashes’ offense struggled only taking 11 shots overall, three of which came in the first overtime period.

“I think going forward we definitely learned from this game that we need to come out strong from the first opening minute and I think we struggled to do that today,” Desandes-Moyer said.

Kent’s lone goal came in the second period and was scored by senior forward Laila Richter.

“I think it’s our mentality, performing under pressure and performing when there is a lot on the line,” Desandes-Moyer said. “This is something we need to look at a lot this week in practice and figure out how we can do that better.”

The Flashes’ had six penalty corner opportunities, but was only able to convert on one of them.

“We’re moving on [from this loss] and next week every single team has the same opportunity to win the MAC tournament,” Desandes-Moyer said. “We have that same opportunity as well and we are looking forward to working towards that.”

Defensively, Kent allowed 12 shots and five penalty corners. Longwood’s two goals came in the third and second overtime period. Both goals were scored by sophomore midfielder Luna Lopez.

“I thought we played a really solid defensive effort and our goal keeper was outstanding and made some really clutch saves for us,” Desandes-Moyer said. “We are just hoping to get a little better this week and it’s a fresh new start for us next week.”

Flashes’ junior goalie Azure Fernsler had five saves on the afternoon.

“I think our hockey is good it’s just our mentality and how we approach each game that we need to work on,” Desandes-Moyer said.

Kent is the No.1 seed in the MAC tournament next week and will play Friday at 11:30 a.m. at Miami University.

Contact Kathryn Rajnicek at [email protected]