CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. – The Villanova field hockey team came up just short in a defensive battle on Sunday, falling 1-0 to Penn at home on October 12.

Penn controlled much of the action in the opening quarter, registering five shots—including two on goal. Freshman goalkeeper Sophie Volkel stood tall in the cage, turning away both attempts to keep the game scoreless.

The second period was a more balanced contest, with both teams trading offensive opportunities. Villanova nearly broke through on a penalty corner when Molly Zimmerman deflected a shot toward goal, but a Penn's goalie cleared it away to preserve the 0-0 tie heading into halftime.

The Quakers struck early in the third quarter, capitalizing on their momentum to take a 1-0 lead. They continued to press offensively, outshooting the Wildcats 5-0 in the frame. Volkel remained strong in goal, adding two more saves to keep Villanova within striking distance.

Villanova ramped up the pressure in the final quarter, adding an extra attacker in search of the equalizer. The Wildcats recorded four shots in the last 15 minutes, including a quality chance from Ava Borkowski that was turned aside by Penn's goalkeeper. Gemma Lysaght had two late attempts off a corner, but both were blocked as Villanova's comeback bid fell just short.

Up Next: Villanova will hit the road to face BIG EAST opponent Quinnipiac in Hamden, Conn., on Friday, October 17, at 1:00 p.m.