After dominating Vermont, 6-1, in the season opener on Aug. 28, the Villanova field hockey team got off to a great start for the 2004 season.

Less than 24 hours later, they took Miami of Ohio, 4-2. Last Tuesday night, however, they fell to the undefeated Lockhaven, 2-1, giving them a 2-1 record.

Although this is only the beginning, the outcome of these preliminary matches could indicate a bright season for the squad.

The Lady Wildcats put up a tough fight against the Lady Eagles, but their effort and determination did not quite pull through for them.

‘Nova’s lone goal was scored early in the game by midfielder Catherine Sommits, assisted by Lauren Campanelli. This is Sommits third goal of the season, which advanced the freshman to second on the team with number of points.

Not discouraged by the ‘Cat’s goal scored eight minutes into the game, the Eagles continued to pressure the defense and capitalized on a penalty corner to tie the match 1-1.

The game remained tied until halftime.

Nine minutes into the second half, Lockhaven came back after knocking in a rebound from another penalty corner. The ‘Cats had many scoring opportunities but were unable to take advantage of them. The final score was 2-1.

Despite the loss, the coaches and the players have retained high expectations for the season. They plan to improve last year’s 11-7 overall and 4-1 Big East Conference records.

Jenny Nelson, an incoming freshman this year, has already set her standards high for the team

“We hope to win the Big East and then move on to be a top 20 school,” Nelson said.

The Wildcats were ranked third in the Big East in preseason polls. The Wildcats also earned preseason All Conference honors.

Three Wildcats, senior captain Vanessa Pizzulli, junior forward Rory Rogers and sophomore goalkeeper Erin Scott, were also selected to the preseason All Big East Team.

On Friday, the team traveled to Virginia to play head coach, Joanie Millhous’s, alma mater, William and Mary.

“William and Mary is a great opportunity for us this season,” Pizzulli said. “They are a nationally ranked team with a ton of talent.

“In order to win, we need to take advantage of every single opportunity and play together as a team,” she added.

The ‘Cats next home game takes place on Sept. 19 against Big East competitor, Connecticut.