EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State Field Hockey is attempting to stop its slide after two consecutive losses by a combined score of 2-11. The Spartans come into this game with a 4-4 record overall, and a 1-3 record against ranked opponents with the sole win coming in their first game of the season against American. Do not let the numbers fool you, these last two losses came against No. 6 Penn State and No. 3 Maryland, two teams providing extremely tough competition. 

The last time the Spartan’s lost two games in a row this season, they returned in full strength against Bellarmine, defeating the Knights 3-1. Coach Helen Knull will be looking to lead the Spartans back to a positive record on the season with this matchup against the Buckeyes.

The Spartans come in with a new scoring leader, Isa van der Weij. Van der Weij has four goals this season, two against No. 3 Maryland, and eight total points. 

Consistency in goal continues for Michigan State. Monique Jardell has played every minute in net this season. She is coming off a 12-save outing against Maryland, a career high.

While MSU looks to stop its slide, the Buckeyes are attempting to stop an avalanche. Ohio State has lost the last five consecutive games after a 3-0 start to the season. Coming off of a 2-0 loss to No. 6 Penn State, the Buckeyes seek its first win since September 4. 

Sophomore midfielder Hallie Brost is leading the pack in scoring for the Buckeyes, with three goals and six points. Ohio State is currently facing an offensive drought. The Buckeyes have not scored in the last three games.

According to The Lantern (Ohio State Student News), senior midfielder Emma Goldean said,  “We’re treating Michigan State like it’s the one and only game. This is our most important thing right now.”

No matter the outcome of this match, one of these teams will be earning its first Big Ten win of the season on September 30 at 4p.m. The match will be streamed on BigTen+.