Salve Regina shuts out Framingham State, 2-0

NEWPORT, R.I. - Freshman forward Kelly Burke [Georgetown, Mass.] scored her second goal in as many games and propelled Salve Regina University field hockey to a 2-0 victory in its home opener against Framingham State College.

"Our defense really stepped up once we got that one-goal lead, keeping the pressure off and getting the ball in our offensive end," said fourth-year head coach Jennifer Eldridge. Eldridge also praised the defensive efforts of junior Jillian Stanley [Watertown, Conn.] and senior co-captain Andrea Michel [Yarmouth, Maine]. The latter added an insurance goal with six minutes remaining.

Senior co-captain Devin Eppley [Darien, Conn.] stopped three shots for the victory. Ram junior Allesha Kenyon [Westford, Mass.] defended five shots heading towards her goal.

Burke's tally came after an offensive thrust from junior midfielder Ali Campagna [West Hartford, Conn.] from 12 feet out in front of the net. The Seahawks avenged a 3-1 defeat at Framingham last season while limiting the Rams to three first-half shots, all from sophomore defender Kayleigh Force [Leominster, Mass.].

"We finally came together with our passing combinations today," continued Eldridge. "The girls are getting their game sense back and it's starting to flow a lot easier."

Michel's goal came on a penalty corner initiated by Brittany Lopes [Lexington, Mass.]. Campagna assisted on both scores.

Salve Regina (1-1) lost its season-opener at Wheaton on Tuesday with Burke providing the only scoring in the first half. Framingham opened its season today. The Rams host Wheelock on Saturday (11 a.m.).

The Seahawks return to action on Saturday as well when they host Eastern Connecticut State at noon.