NEWBERRY - Despite a strong second-half effort, the Newberry field hockey team fell short against conference opponent Limestone, losing by a score of 2-0.

Both teams have established their presence in the conference as they have traded spots in the rankings over the past three weeks. Newberry (9-4) was able to record their first victory against Limestone (10-5) in an all-out team effort, defeating the Saints 2-1 in overtime on October 12. Newberry was unable to defend their home turf this go-round as the Saints got up early in the contest although the Wolves controlled possession for most of the contest. 

The game started quietly as neither side seemed to establish dominance in the opening minutes. Kelly Diplock opened the Saints scoring on Wednesday eight minutes into the action with Limestone's only shot of the first period. Diplock was assisted Kate Remley as the Saints used a penalty corner to take the lead. The Wolves' defense locked down after the goal, disallowing the Saints from being dangerous in the box for the duration of the half.

Senior forward Farai Kawonde was able to utilize her pace to advance Newberry into space, giving the offense some momentum. The Wolves were able to take control of the second quarter but failed to find the back of the cage after peppering the keeper with seven shots to Limestone's one. The score held to halftime, despite the Wolves maintaining the ball in their offensive half throughout the second quarter.

The second half was much of the same as the Wolves held most of the possession but the Saints keeper kept the Wolves from reaching the back of the cage. The Saints were able to score in the 33rd minute when Limestone was awarded a penalty stroke. Kate Remely sent her shot into the upper left corner of the cage past Freshmen standout Charlotte Bragard. The second goal did not stop the Wolves from finding the energy to advance.

Chantel Gauthier was another strong presence in the midfield once again for the Wolves. The midfielder was able to disrupt play in the middle, allowing her to regain possession and advance up the field. Gauthier's energy throughout the year has sparked bursts of momentum from the rest of her teammates.

The Wolves attempted to rally late, outshooting the Saints 10-5 on the day and earning three penalty corners in the fourth quarter. The Wolves attempted to make the game interesting as they drove the ball down the field, finding several scoring opportunities but the Saints held on firmly.

The Wolves finished with nine penalty corners, while Limestone had five. 

Newberry will have a one-day break before returning action at Setzler Field on Friday afternoon. The Wolves will face Converse College in another conference matchup at 6:00 p.m.