By Adam Levine
Sports Editor
The Framingham State Rams lost to the Babson College Beavers 21-9 at Maple Street Field March 30.
Head Coach Devyne Doran said, “Babson is talented and we take away lots of good lessons from playing really talented teams.”
Babson only slightly edged out Framingham in all relevant match stats, except for their success with free position shots. Babson scored eight of their 10 free position shots, while Framingham only scored one of their four shots.
The Beavers began with a quick goal in less than 2 minutes of play.
Framingham’s attacker Hannah Guerin scored a goal off of an assist from teammate, midfielder Rachel Erickson, to tie the game 1-1.
Babson pulled away and closed out the first quarter with 5 unanswered points.
Framingham’s only successful free position shot came from Erickson to kick off the second quarter. She followed up with another goal, this time assisted by teammate, midfielder Regan Fein, less than 2 minutes later.
The Rams closed the gap and trailed 6-3 with 10 minutes remaining in the second quarter.
Babson responded by outscoring Framingham 3-1 to close out the second quarter.
The Beavers led with a score of 9-4 at halftime.
Three of Babson’s first-half goals came from free position shots.
The Rams and Beavers scored a total of 10 goals in an eventful third quarter.
After Babson opened the quarter with a goal, the Rams’ attacker, Hailey Baker, scored a goal for the Rams.
Babson responded again, but Guerin scored back-to-back goals and brought the Rams back within 4 points of the Beavers.
The Beavers countered with 4 unanswered points to reclaim and further extend their lead.
Framingham’s attacker, Maddy Skiff, closed out the lively third quarter with a goal.
Babson led by a score of 15-8 entering the fourth quarter.
The Beavers attacked the net to add on another six goals in the fourth quarter.
Framingham’s attacker, Leah Green, hit the back of the net to break up Babson’s scoring, but the Beavers prevailed.
Babson’s dominant free position shots and offensive performance secured them the 21-9 victory over Framingham.
Baker said, “There were a few plays where we could have done a little bit better here and there, but overall, I think the intensity level that we had today reflected us pretty well.”
The Rams prepare for an eight-game stretch of MASCAC matchups to close out their regular season.
Framingham’s defender, Kaleigh Houlihan, said, “I'm excited to get into MASCAC play. I think we have a lot to look forward to and show what we can really do.”
Baker said they matchup well against the rest of the MASCAC. “We feel like we have a lot to prove so we're all kind of playing with a chip on our shoulder.
Doran said, “We are feeling good - hoping for another championship.”
Framingham travels to Fitchburg State for their first MASCAC matchup April 1.