The field hockey is bolstering its confidence as the postseason nears. On Tuesday, September 29, the Vikings defeated CSG on the road–and then two days later–beat Olentangy Liberty at home. The team continues to steamroll its competition, outscoring its opponents 15-2 since their lone loss of the year. The Vikes boast an impressive 9-1-1 record and are gearing up for another run at states.
The Vikes’ game against CSG was not a pretty one. It was cold and muddy as Academy hit the road to play the Unicorns. Despite the tough conditions, the girls’ offense was firing on all cylinders, with two goals by seniors Maddie Vaziri one from Grace Geiger in the first half. The Vikings headed into halftime with a comfortable 3-0 lead. In the second half, Geiger tacked on another goal, and Academy’s defense held CSG scoreless, giving the Vikes a 4-0 win.
Still riding high from its CSG victory, Academy hosted Olentangy Liberty in a clash of powerhouses two days later. The Vikings were bursting with energy during warm ups, seeking revenge against a team that had beaten them in the two previous years. Each team started the game passing most precisely, and Academy struck first with a goal from Vaziri. The Patriots quickly responded, however, with with a goal of their own, tying the game at 1. The Vikings regrouped, and Geiger knocked in a goal, taking back the lead. The game stood at 2-1 heading into the half, with the momentum clearly in the Vikes’ favor.
The large home crowd buzzed in anticipation its Vikings held a lead over a perennial title contender in Liberty. Academy benefitted from an energetic halftime talk, and Baylee Mueller’ 17 scored off of a corner to extend the Vikes’ lead. Shortly after, Geiger scored again, making it a 4-1 game. The Vikings could feel the blowout on the horizon, and their energy level continued to rise.
Then, Mueller scored on another corner, and even Academy was surprised by how they were dominating such a prominent team. After securing the 5-1 victory, the Academy players ran to greet their loyal supporters in the stands, rejoicing in the huge win.
These two resounding victories were a statement to the rest of the league.
