All things considered, a 4-0 loss to the Terps yesterday in College park, Md. isn't that bad.
"Maryland is hands down the best team in the country," said Liz Tchou, coach of the Blue Devils' field hockey team.
Duke expanded its losing streak to four games this weekend, three of the past four defeats coming to top-five teams. Although its record has suffered, Duke (5-9, 0-3 in the ACC) has only grown stronger from such intense competition.
In a heated defensive battle, the Blue Devils managed to hold powerhouse Maryland to only one goal in the first half, scored by sophomore Carissa Messimer at the 13:29 mark. U.S. national team player Carla Tagliente hoped to broaden the lead on a penalty stroke, but Duke goalie Erica Perrier managed to deny the shot.
The Blue Devil offense struggled, however, coming up scoreless. Maryland claimed 20 shots to Duke's meager four.
"Maryland's one-on-one defense in the 25 was excellent," Tchou said. "We fought the entire game [and] were very physical with them, but couldn't put the ball in the goal."
The Duke defense continued to be tested in the second half as Maryland found the back of the cage three more times. Terrapin junior Caroline Walter, at the 27-minute mark, knocked in a ball that was stick- stopped by Tagliente on a penalty corner.
Messimer, a scoring power for Maryland throughout this season, found the net twice more before the final whistle blew.
One goal, which was passed to Messimer from senior Keli Smith, was tipped past Perrier at the eight-minute mark. Messimer's final blow against Duke came with less than three minutes to play.
With this win, Maryland improves its record to 11-1 overall and 2-1 in the ACC. The Terrapins also preserve their top spot in the national rankings.
Although Tchou was obviously disappointed with the outcome, she applauded the efforts of several of her players, especially rookie Jess Fluck.
Fluck, in her first season at Duke, has started every game and already become an integral part of the defense.
"A lot of people really stepped up today, especially some of the younger players, " junior captain Angie North said. "Jess Fluck and Kim Gogola both had excellent games."
For her part, Fluck was far quicker to point out the team's effort.
"We all really put our hearts on the field today," she said.
Fluck also thanked her teammates and coaches for their support in helping her develop as a player this season.
With the absences of key players Kim Susko and Chrissy Ashley, the Blue Devils will need young talent such as Fluck's to carry them through the remainder of the season.
So where to from here?
While the losses have piled up, the field hockey team remains optimistic about its trip to Princeton this weekend.
"We love to play Princeton," said North, reflecting upon last year's upset victory. "It's gonna be rough and competitive-everyone is excited to play."
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