By Riley Fontana
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Walpole Porkers are back in the playoffs for a chance at another State Championship title. They started the playoff run on Saturday, November 1 against the Marshfield Rams shutting them out 6-0.
The first period saw three of the six goals Walpole would amount, and how well the team played together. The defense kept the ball inside of Marshfield’s zone for the majority of the play allowing the offense to shine. Caitlyn Naughton, Senior Captain, opened the scoring just under a minute into the game. Junior Kate Schneider scored the next two goals, at 11:50 and 3:17 left on the clock.
The second period was no different. Powerhouses on the Walpole offense and defense kept Marshfield from even approaching scoring location. Junior Kristen Barry was blocking passes between Marshfield players to send Walpole back into the attacking zone. Naughton scored her second of the game in the middle of the period putting Walpole up 4-0 before halftime.
Walpole Senior goalie Aideen Smith showed off her power, blocking every single shot Marshfield put up against her. Junior Lily Bissanti played a hard offense to force Marshfield’s attempts back into their own zone. With 7:33 left on the clock Jenna Wong scored again for the Porkers, propelling them to the final quarter.
Marshfield tried hard to stage a comeback but could not make it through the defensive line. Junior Kaylee Walsh was another key offensive player, propelling the ball into scoring position. Junior Kendal Cusak notched the last goal with 12:48 left in the game.
There is no denying that Walpole is a force to be reckoned with within the field hockey circuit and opening with a shut-out game proves their strength. They are a strong contender for the State Champions and will face off against Acton-Boxborough next.
