On Thursday, Freehold Township Field Hockey fought for the title of State Champions for their section during an away game against Jackson Memorial. The game ended with a 2-1  Township victory, earning them the title of Central Jersey Group IV Sectional Champions.

During the first half of the game, spectators were on the edge of their seats while back and forth play occurred between both teams. Things began to pick up when a foul in Township’s defensive circle resulted in a stroke on goal for Jackson. Senior goalie, Darlene Benjamin, saved the ball, lifting the spirits of the Township team and supporters. As the half continued, Township gained offensive control and put shots on goal, but Jackson’s goalie continued to make saves. To everyone’s disappointment, the first half ended scoreless, tied 0-0.

By now, both teams were hungry for a goal, shown in the enthusiastic chanting from both sides right before the game resumed after halftime. Within the first five minutes of the second half, Jackson scored after a battle in the circle. Instead of crushing the spirits of Township, it drove the players to get a goal of their own. Township attack gained offensive dominance, with many offensive corners and shots on goal. However, Jackson’s defense put up a fair fight, saving any goals from getting in the cage. At this point, Jackson fans are confident in their ability to win the game and vigorously cheer on their team. To their dismay, with ten minutes left in the game, Township sophomore Jessica Applegate tapped the ball in the goal, tying the game 1-1. Expectantly, Township fans were extremely hyped by their prospect of victory. Subsequently, Jackson coaches called a timeout; once the game resumed with five minutes left, a Jackson player was green carded (out for two minutes), giving the advantage to Township. In these last agonizing minutes of the game, both teams had scoring opportunities but neither team made a goal, causing the game to go into overtime.

The game condensed into 7 v 7, with ten minute halves, making the stakes higher than ever before. With just about six minutes left in the first overtime half, there was a scramble in Jackson’s defensive circle, and Township senior Jessica Pietracatella scored a high corner shot to give Township the win. Township fans erupted in a chorus of cheers and claps, bringing light to the otherwise overcast day.

With a final score of 2-1, Township won the Central Jersey Group IV State Sectional Championship for the second year in a row. The sectional champs will now advance to compete for the overall state championship, Wednesday, November 12th; details to be announced. Come out and support the team!