It was a rough start for the Spartan field hockey team as it kicked off its season with a 1-4 record, suffering losses at the hands of Skidmore College, the University of New England, Plymouth State and Mount Holyoke.

The team’s only win came on Sept. 11 as it defeated Western New England University 3-1.

The team lost its home opener 3-0 against Skidmore on Sept. 1. The game had been expected to be a very tough one for the Spartans after they lost to the team 8-1 last season.

The Spartans had many scoring opportunities, playing very well offensively, however, they just couldn’t get the ball in the net.

In the first half of the game the Spartans dominated by holding off Skidmore with excellent goaltending coming from the Spartans goalkeeper Bridget Dusha.

During the last minute of the first half, though, the Thoroughbreds took a 1-0 lead thanks to a goal scored by Annie Rosencrans.

“We are trying new things, we are making good changes in the lineup, and good changes in our system,” Landon said. “I’m extremely pleased with our first half.”

The midfield also made several excellent carries up the field. Senior Stephanie Paproski, and juniors Caitlin Briggs and Mercedes Maltbie were all standouts.

After the Thoroughbreds second goal was scored with 23 minutes remaining, Skidmore began to pick up its game, scoring once again and sealing the 3-0 victory over Castleton.

On Sept. 4, the Spartans found themselves reeling again from a 4-3 overtime upset against UNE, a top competitor.

The Spartans held a lead throughout most of the game, ending the first half in a 3-2 lead thanks to a pair of goals from Briggs and sophomore Rachel Preusser. The Spartans maintained their lead until there was six minutes remaining as sophomore Kelsea Beisaw scored the tying goal for UNE.

However, the Spartans couldn’t hold off the Nor’easters for too long. Just over three minutes into overtime play, Michelle Oswald sent a ball in the front of the cage to end the game at 4-3.

“We really competed against UNE,” Landon said. “We can play better than we did. That was the one that got away.”

Despite the two losses, Landon isn’t getting too down on herself or her team.

“It was a really exciting weekend,” Landon said. “Our team shows so much dedication and commitment, especially from the returning players. They want it, they’re ready.”

The first six games for the Spartans are non-conference, and Landon says she sees this as good learning period for the rest of the team’s season.