Cape hockey claims North title with 7-0 victory over Tech

The Cape field hockey team took control from the opening possession and racked up another Henlopen North title with a 7-0 shutout of Sussex Tech on the Ravens’ home field.

The Vikings had goals from five different players in the overpowering performance. Junior Norah Block hit the board three times, while Avary Miller, Macy Steinwedel, Isabel Mastrangelo and Kailey McMahon each tallied a goal.

Credited with helpers were Mairead Rishko, Steinwedel, Alysa McCarthy and Addison Breneman. 

Block put the Vikings on the scoreboard first with a goal just 65 seconds into the contest. The Vikings never looked back.

“Heading into the game, we knew we had a job to do,” said sophomore midfielder Atia Sabbagh. “We were well prepared by coach [Kate] Austin, and our coaches and just wanted to focus on getting the win. I’m really happy that the entire team had the opportunity to step onto the field, and I just wanted us to stay focused on playing our game.”

Cape goalie Myla Smith was only tested twice and came up with her seventh shutout of the season. Tech keeper Melea Pusey faced a barrage of 37 shots, stopping 22 of them. The Vikings held a 22-0 advantage in penalty corners.

“We were pleased with our play today, and the girls knew the importance of winning the game to clinch the division,” said Austin. “It was a very crowded circle, so it gave us opportunities to work on different ball patterns and problem solve to be effective inside of the scoring circle.

“We were able to get everyone playing time, which is always a good thing as we're preparing everyone for a conference championship and potential tournament run; we want everyone to be game ready. With losing so many seniors to graduation, it's an accomplishment to be proud of these girls to show up day after day and get the opportunity to play for a conference championship after missing out on that chance last season.”

The Vikings will face Delmar for the Henlopen Conference Championship Saturday, Oct. 26, in Cape’s Champions Stadium. Game time is 11 a.m.