Sacrificing the homecoming dance for a shot at competing in the Greater Boston League championship, Malden’s field hockey team drove out to Revere on Friday afternoon to play in one of the most crucial games of the season. Though the outcome, a 0-0 tie, was not what they were hoping for, they gained clarity about what needs to be improved and are staying optimistic about the remainder of the season.
The team felt ready due to the countless practices and scrimmages they had, which led to this game and the team feel ready: “We looked strong against them,” said Coach Daniel O’Toole. He hoped the team would “keep applying the pressure, get through, and score some goals.”
Serving as a vital stepping stone for securing a spot in the Greater Boston League (GBL) championships, the players recognized the game’s gravity and were determined to give it their all. According to senior captain and goalie Ashlyn Cullity, “the GBL league is typically very close, and sometimes it can be a single loss that causes you not to make GBL. This is a really important game for us.”
With the game being Revere’s senior night, there was an air of positivity before the coin toss. Malden joyfully cheered for each of Revere’s seniors, and in a heartfelt gesture, each of Malden’s seniors also received a rose.
Once the game began, however, Malden faced immediate communication issues, which led to a faltering in their typical offensive skills. Revere dominated time of possession, controlled the game, and had significantly more shots on goal.
In response to Revere’s attacking force, Malden’s defense stepped up. Revere seemed unable to cut through to the goal, and within the first five minutes, Cullity made three remarkable saves. Additionally, Revere was awarded three penalty corners during the first quarter, none of which were successful. The energy from the sidelines was electric, with cheers from parents and students erupting after every play.
By the end of the second quarter, Malden scored, though the point was disallowed due to a high stick. This infraction happened twice more within the first half, leading to the coaches’ reminders about angling sticks downward.
The team huddled during halftime, and a sense of frustration hung as morale dipped among the players. However, the team understood the root cause of their struggles, and Head Coach Tiffany Cane passionately encouraged them to challenge Revere offensively and maintain a strong defense.
As a result, quarter three turned out to be Malden’s best. The team gained significantly more possession, minimized penalties, and communicated more effectively. Still, Revere’s defense pushed back, and the score remained 0-0.
By the fourth quarter, tensions were high, and both teams looked strong. Many shots were taken at both goals, creating a ping-pong effect up and down the field. During the final minute, Malden made one last shot at Revere’s goal, which was unsuccessful, ending the game with a tie.
Spirits were low as the team shook hands and huddled, with their hopes of a win dashed, and the road to the Greater Boston League looking uncertain.
Cane reflected on the game, admitting her disappointment. “This was a difficult game for Malden because I think we all have something blocking us mentally. I didn’t see the skills my typical varsity players have performed and shown me over the past three years,” she noted that many players had the SAT the following morning, possibly explaining the mental block.
That said, with many new players starting the game, she highlighted their skills and determination. “My new players stepped up and shined today, which is nice to see because they’ll be my varsity team next year,” Cane claimed.
While the result differed from what the team envisioned, it proved an essential learning experience. The areas where the team slipped up were accepted not as permanent flaws, but potential for improvement. One thing can be said about Malden High School’s field hockey team: every player is on the same wavelength. They recognize their current position and the objectives they aim to achieve. Not to mention, they are determined to do everything in their power to reach them. Their journey continues, and with it, the hope for a triumphant season.
