Ohio returns to Pruitt Field for the final time this year for a MAC matchup that has massive playoff implications.
Match Information
Opponent: Bellarmine Knights (7-7 overall, 3-2 Mid-American Conference)
Location: Pruitt Field (Athens, Ohio)
Time and Date: Oct. 20, 3 p.m.
Bellarmine is entering Friday’s matchup looking to extend its win streak to three games. Its previous two matchups were close wins, the first of which coming on the road against MAC opponent Ball State, in which it won 3-2 in overtime; the second was a senior day 1-0 win against Lindenwood. Its win against Ball State came in comeback fashion after facing a 2-0 deficit. They clawed back to earn a key in-conference win. As for the win against Lindenwood, a deeper dive into the stats shows the Knights had a better performance than the final score indicates. Bellarmine outshot Lindenwood 13-3 and didn't allow a single shot in the second half.
The Bobcats will be stepping onto Pruitt Field playing arguably the most important game of their 2023 season on Friday. Bellarmine and Ohio are both currently sitting at a conference record of 3-2. As a result of their in-conference records, both teams are even in the MAC standings and a win for the Bobcats would be their biggest of the year. For Ohio to earn that ever-so-important win on Friday, it will have to improve heavily on its performance against No. 2 Northwestern. That game ended with a final score of 5-0 with Northwestern coming out on top. Northwestern outshot Ohio 21-6 and scored in every quarter. Ohio must be in peak form on Friday to secure a massive in-conference win.
Players to Watch:
Bellarmine’s freshman forward Paige Hoyer has led the team in goals this season, scoring them at a very efficient rate as well. Her nine goals coming on 22 shots is good for a shot percentage of .409%. Ohio must be alert in not letting Hoyer get shot opportunities as she is keen to capitalize.
For the Bobcats, Katelyn Whittle has been stellar all season, and she will need to be stellar once more on Friday. Whittle is currently tied for the MAC lead in goals on the season with 12, averaging one goal per game. She also leads the MAC in total points with 29 on the year. Whittle is the front-runner for MAC Offensive Player of the Year and will be looking to continue her dominance against Bellarmine.
