CHRIS KELLY Monmouth Regional’s Dee Ross (l) and Red Bank Regional’s Amanda Maklowski chase down a loose ball during their state playoff game in West Long Branch Friday.
Desire, dedication and determination have been the three components that make up the Monmouth Regional field hockey team’s motto, which they created back in September.
And with the season winding down, it has paid off for the Golden Falcons, most recently in a 2-0 victory over Red Bank Regional in the opening round of the Central Jersey Group III tournament.
"I think we played excellent," said Monmouth head coach Peggy McKean. "We’ve been in a little slump, but the girls did everything right in today’s game.
"Every one of the girls contributed to this win. The unity of this team has helped the girls improve every time they step onto the field."
After a scoreless first half, Monmouth finally broke the scoring drought with a high, cross-body shot from Dee Ross.
"I feel that both teams were very comparable, but we really strung things together and were mentally ready for this game," said the right-winger. "It’s really great that we were able to get into the second round. Monmouth has a really good field hockey team, that doesn’t get recognized — hopefully now we do."
Kathy Ruhnke carried the ball into Red Bank’s circle, shuffling the ball off to Ross. Ross quickly shot from the left side of the circle, scoring into the rear right part of the cage.
Almost 15 minutes later, the Golden Falcons added an insurance goal with Kelli Mesi beating Red Bank goalie Kate Aras.
Mesi took control of the ball near midfield, dribbling her way toward Red Bank’s cage, took a couple poking shots with the ball before she snuck it in just inside the near post.
"All of us stepped things up today; we really wanted this game," said Mesi. "We really worked hard for this all season; everyone did a great job."
The Falcons’ second-half adjustment gave them a 14-6 shot advantage, with Julia Case denying the Bucs all six times.
Aras recorded 10 saves for Red Bank.
— Chris Kelly