UNION, N.J. (3/9/21) – A goal in each quarter propelled the Kean University field hockey team to a 4-2 victory over Montclair State University in the season opener on Tuesday evening.

Ja'Carra Jackson notched a goal and an assist for the Cougars who improve to 1-0 overall.  Elizabeth Cimilluca tallied a goal and an assist for the Cougars who fall to 0-1 overall.

Kean scored two goals in the first half as Lia DiPiazza and newcomer Krista O'Grady put the Cougars ahead 2-0. DiPiazza scored in the 6^th minute with a quick move in front of the cage that beat the goalie. O'Grady tipped home a shot by Jackson in the 25^th minute as Kean maintained a 2-0 lead at halftime and a 10-2 advantage on shots.

After MSU scored in the 43^rd minute, Kean answered immediately with a tip-in goal by Bridget Naylor. Naylor scored off a Morgan Stump shot to give Kean the 3-1 lead.

The Cougars final goal of the evening came when Jorja Hibschman took the ball deep towards the cage and made a quick pass to Jackson for the score in the 53^rd minute.

Kean edged Montclair on shots (20-8), shots on goal (17-6), and penalty corners (11-4).
Jackson recorded four shots, while DiPiazza and M. Stump tallied three each. O'Grady and Kayla Reardon each posted two shots apiece.

In goal, Belly Reynoso and Jenna Flemings combine to log 60 minutes and two saves.

Head Coach Leslie LaFronz and the Cougars will return to action on Friday, Mar. 12^th, hosting the Ospreys of Stockton University for a non-conference contest at 7:30 p.m.