Bastian’s Overtime Strike Elevates Field Hockey To 2-1 Win

AURORA, N.Y. – Sophomore Courtney Bastian (West Winfield, N.Y.) scored only 3:55 into the overtime period as the Wells College field hockey team posted a 2-1 overtime victory over the Mustangs of Morrisville State College Saturday afternoon at Athletic Association Field. With the victory, the Express even their overall record at 1-1 while the Mustangs (0-1) drop their first game of the season.

Following a Morrisville State foul within the circle, Bastian was assigned to take the penalty corner to the left of the Mustangs cage. Bastian sent a feed to the top of the circle where freshman Shianne Stokes (Mays Landing, N.J.) was ready to receive the pass. A powerful blast on net was redirected by Bastian near the left post to lift Wells to their first victory of the season.

Despite trailing 1-0 following a goal by Ilze Stots of Morrisville State, junior Marina Fargnoli (Apalachin, N.Y.) forced home an Avary McKinney (Rochester, N.Y.) pass in the 16th minute of play to knot the score at one apiece. Following a corner, McKinney fired a shot on goal that was turned aside by Morrisville State goalkeeper Nicole Gregg. McKinney gathered the rebound and sent a pass to the right that hooked up with Fargnoli's stick, tying the score in the process.

Cumulatively, the Mustangs out-shot the Express by a 12-to-10 margin, but Wells posted three penalty corners in the overtime period to bring their game total to 15, opposing 11 for Morrisville State.

Wells goalkeeper Sydney Line (Freeport, N.Y.) picked up her first collegiate victory (1-1), turning aside 6-of-7 shots on goal that she faced. Gregg (0-1) halted six shots on net but allowed two goals, including Bastian's game-winning tally.

The Express return to action Tuesday, Sept. 3 as they host the Highlanders of Houghton College in a 4:30 p.m. contest at Athletic Association Field on the campus of Wells College. Stay up to date with the latest news directly from the Wells College athletic department by "liking" us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/WellsExpress) and subscribing to our Twitter account (http://www.twitter.com/WellsExpress).