The Dedham field hockey squad jumped back above .500 on the season with a 3-0 victory at Ursuline Academy Tuesday afternoon, sweeping the two-game season series between the crosstown rivals.
Dedham improved to 7-6-1 with the win, holding Ursuline (1-11) scoreless for the second time this season.
"This is definitely a building year for us," said Ursuline coach Courtney Sergio. "I have an eighth-grader and three ninth-graders on the circle and not a lot of varsity experience. I also have kids out there who are ice hockey players who had never played field hockey before and it's just a matter of time before they get the confidence to go up against seniors."
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The three Dedham goals matched the team's second highest total for the year and it's the third time they've scored three or more goals this season.
"We had a good attack and we capitalized on our opportunities today," said Dedham coach Leigh Shea.
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Amanda Celata got the scoring started for Dedham as she put in the first goal of the game 17 minutes in. As time expired in the half, Celata's cousin, Tara, capitalized on the teams fifth corner, giving the Marauders a 2-0 lead.
That was more than enough for Dedham goalkeeper Kayleigh Bramhall, who has now allowed just two goals in her last four contests. Katelyn Abber tacked on some second-half insurance for Dedham however, giving them the 3-0 victory.
The Marauders have just four games left on their schedule and coach Shea feels her team still has a little more work to do.
"We have to continue our passing game and score a couple more goals," said Shea. "Also, our team defense is something we always need to continue to work on."
As for the Bears, coach Sergio said she's pleased with where her team is currently despite Tuesday's loss.
"I'm very happy with the progress we've had so far," said Sergio. "We are getting better every single game so there is hope for our future. It's exciting."
The Bears play Thursday afternoon at Sharon and the Marauders host Brookline on Wednesday.
