TOPSHAM — The Camden Hills varsity field hockey team hit the road to Topsham on Thursday, Sept. 26 to challenge Mount Ararat. 

By the end of the contest, the Windjammers (1-5-1) were narrowly defeated 2-1. 

Scoring for Camden Hills was Lulu Lydon (assisted by Sophia Campbell). 

Scoring for Mount Ararat were Brea Holte (assisted by Wyley Fitzpatrick) and Fitzpatrick (assisted by Hannah Huston). 

Camden Hills recorded six corners, five shots and seven saves. 

Mount Ararat tallied eight corners, nine shots and four saves. 

Despite Mount Ararat starting the game with possession of the ball, the Windjammers quickly gained control of the game. 

“Usually we’re a second half team, but with gloomy weather looming and the potential to call the game early, we had to get on scoreboard immediately,” said Camden Hills head coach Lindsey Clement. “We also knew we couldn't be entirely offensive minded because Mt Ararat has a few key attackers that we’d have to contain.”

Within the first three minutes, the Windjammers netted a goal off a corner as Lydon redirected a Campbell shot.

“Getting a goal that early on was great motivation for the team to keep their intensity up,” said Clement. “They worked together to shut down Mt Ararat's offensive threats, and also tried to maintain possession of play. Both teams were evenly matched, but our touches on the ball helped us to control a lot of the play.”

The Windjammers were tasked with limiting possession opportunities for Fitzpatrick, one of Mount Ararat’s top scorers. 

“Molly Shook stepped up and played a phenomenal game shutting down Wyley’s breakaways and kept her away from the goal,” said Clement. 

Campbell and Ani Reinwand were praised for their midfield play by Clement. 

“They worked well recovering and making smart decisions, ultimately foiling many of their offensive breakaways,” said Clement. 

On defense, Charlotte Hood earned praise from Clement. 

“She played with the perfect combination of aggressive but patient defense,” said Clement. “She plays offseason club with some of their players, and I think that gave her (and our team) an advantage defensively as she knew what to anticipate.” 

Camden Hills relied on passing to advance the ball due to the field conditions. Clement praised Maggie Blemaster, Greta Bishop, Alyssa Bland, Lydon and Katie Thorn for offensive play. 

“Our offense played to their individual strengths today and looked like a different team,” said Clement. 

Camden Hills will find itself on the road against Brunswick (4-4) for its next contest Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. 

Reach the sports department at: sports@penbaypilot.com.