Sept. 27, 2015

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - Rutgers field hockey was unsuccessful in its bid for its first Big Ten Conference win, falling 2-0 to the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines on Sunday afternoon at the Bauer Track & Field Complex. The Scarlet Knights fall to (5-4, 0-2 Big Ten) with the loss.

Michigan's two goals both came off the stick of freshman Lydia Sydnor, who scored her first two career tallies. The Wolverines got the first goal of the game 20 minutes into the contest, and extended their lead just after halftime.

Rutgers outshot Michigan 8-7 and held a 5-3 edge in penalty corners in a game that was tightly contested in the midfield. The Scarlet Knights had a series of late chances, earning three penalty corners in the final ten minutes, but were unable to convert for a goal.

"As we go forward in Big Ten play, every team that we play is going to be physical and aggressive," head coach Meredith Civico said. "I thought we didn't respond well to the pressure today. We need to look at these two games this weekend and find a way to rise above the pressure and play our game."

Rutgers also welcomed back a number of alumni for the game, recognizing Mary Panko, Jenna Bull, Laura Rose, Emily Strong, Sophie Wright and Jenn Staab in a halftime ceremony.

Next week the Scarlet Knights will return to the road for a conference game Friday at Michigan State. The team will stay in East Lansing, Mich. for a neutral site contest against Ohio.

Follow Rutgers Athletics on Facebook (www.facebook.com/RutgersAthletics) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/RUAthletics) for all of the latest news and updates. For specific updates regarding Rutgers field hockey, follow the program on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RUFieldHockey), Twitter (@RUFieldHockey) and Instagram (@rutgersfieldhockey). Fans can receive timely information, including special offers and giveaways throughout the year on both social media outlets along with www.ScarletKnights.com.