It could have been the biggest win in school history.
However, for UC Davis, it was not meant to be.
The Aggie field hockey squad faced No. 8 Stanford in their second conference game of the season at Aggie Stadium on Sunday, posting a valiant effort but coming up on the losing end of a 3-1 score-line.
UC Davis found itself trailing early when Stanford exploded out of the gate to a 2-0 lead within the first 10 minutes.
The Aggies held firm defensively for the remainder of the first half, and just when it seemed they were destined to go to the break down by two, sophomore Cloey LemMon found the cage with less than three seconds left in the period.
It was LemMon’s second goal of the season, and it brought the team back within striking distance at 2-1.
“That goal really lifted our spirits,” LemMon said. “It sparked us as we came out in the second half.”
The Aggies started strong in the second frame, gaining several opportunities to score.
Unfortunately for UC Davis, it was unable to find the net and Stanford added a late goal to cement the victory.
While the Aggies were disappointed with the loss, LemMon was pleased with the team’s effort in the match.
“Our team has one of the best work ethics I’ve ever seen,” LemMon said. “We always keep fighting even when we’re down. Everyone on this team wants to do the best we can.”
The Aggies also believe that their strong performance against nationally-ranked Stanford is a testament to the improvement the UC Davis field hockey program has displayed over the past three years.
“We’re growing,” said coach Vianney Campos. “People around the country are noticing who we are and these girls are earning every bit of it. We’re excited for what is coming.”
The loss moves the Aggies to 2-6 on the year, 1-1 in NorPac Conference play. UC Davis will return to non-league action next week when it goes on a three-game road swing in Pennsylvania beginning on Oct. 6. The Aggies will not face another conference opponent until they match up with California Oct. 14.
TREVOR CRAMER can be reached at sports@theaggie.org.
