The Muhlenberg field hockey team opened the 2024 season with a 2-1 overtime loss at Scranton.

It was the second time in the last three years, and the fourth time since 2012, that the two teams have gone past regulation. Ten of the last 12 meetings between the two squads have been decided by a single goal.

The Mules opened the scoring when senior Erin Jackson converted a penalty corner off a pass from senior Devon Eastlack just over five minutes into the second quarter.

Scranton, which went 16-4 and came within a shootout loss of earning an NCAA Tournament bid last season, tied the game in the third quarter.

The Royals won two penalty corners in the final minute-plus of regulation, but the Mule defense held, with junior Grace Leard (pictured above) making her ninth save of the game with about 30 seconds left.
Just 2:32 into the extra period, however, Scranton put home the winner.

Leard's 9 saves were two off her career high.