CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. – The Villanova field hockey team earned a statement victory on Sunday, Sept. 28, defeating No. 15 Saint Joseph's, 2-1, at home.

The opening period was a defensive battle, with both teams locked in a midfield struggle for possession. Each side managed just one shot on goal, both of which were turned aside by the goalkeepers to keep the game scoreless heading into the second quarter.

Villanova took control in the second frame, dictating the pace and outshooting the Hawks 6-0 in the period. Junior Colleen Finnan, who has now scored in back-to-back games, broke through with a brilliant individual effort. The Mullica Hill native split the Saint Joseph's defense and slotted home the game's first goal, putting the Wildcats up 1-0.

The second half saw momentum swing back to Saint Joseph's, as the Hawks applied relentless offensive pressure. Generating 18 shots—most coming off penalty corners—they finally converted one to even the score at 1-1. But the Wildcats responded almost immediately. Freshman Erin Mitchell netted her first career goal, capitalizing on another strong play from Finnan, whose assist set up what proved to be the game-winner.

In goal, freshman Sophie Volkel was outstanding. After facing little action in the first half, she came up clutch in the final two quarters, making seven saves to preserve Villanova's narrow lead and secure the upset. The win marks Villanova's first over a ranked opponent since defeating Temple last season.

Following the victory, head coach Millhouse praised his team's resilience:
"Super proud of our team. Saint Joseph's has an excellent program and coaching staff—they were the defending runner-ups. So, it was really fun to be able to beat them. Our players have put in a lot of hard work, and now they're starting to see that effort pay off."

Up Next: Villanova will head to Washington, D.C., for a Big East matchup against Georgetown on Friday, Oct. 3, at 1:00 p.m.