Despite a strong start and a hat trick from sophomore Alyssa Parrella, Hofstra fell to #23 Johns Hopkins University 15-6 on Saturday at Homewood Field.

The Blue Jays would strike first with two goals early on but sophomore Alexa Mattera had two unassisted goals to bring them to a tie. In between Mattera’s goals, the Hofstra defense was able to hold their opponents back for a seven-minute stretch.

Johns Hopkins scored again soon after but Hofstra hit back hard. Senior Drew Shapiro scored unassisted and Parrella followed with two more goals helped by junior Jenna Budd.

The Pride was fighting hard and playing smart as they continued to keep the ball moving and away from their opponents, but the Blue Jays would not let up.

They continued to score four times in the final minutes of the game to bring the score to 7-5 before halftime in favor of the Blue Jays.

Going into the second half, Hofstra would win the draw and continue to fight Johns Hopkins for possession. Johns Hopkins would go on a streak with five goals before being stopped by a goal from Parrella. It was her 22nd goal of the season so far.

The Pride did not give up as they continued to fight for the ball, causing turnovers and missed shots from the Blue Jays.

Johns Hopkins would continue to score until the end of the game for a final of 15-6. Despite the score, the Pride would have some achievements to take away from this game.

Junior Maddie Fields made 12 saves for a total of 41 in the last three games and freshman Katie Whelan won five draw controls for Hofstra. 

The Pride will face off against Dartmouth University at home at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 16.