EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. – An outstanding season for the Bentley University field hockey team drew to a close Saturday afternoon when the Falcons fell to East Stroudsburg University, 2-1, in the first round of the NCAA Division II Championships at rainy and cold Whitenight Field.

After a scoreless first half, the fourth-seeded Warriors scored a pair of second-half goals to take control of the game and held off a late charge by the Falcons.

""We gave it all we had," said Coach Jessica Spencer. "I am so proud of their effort. We came into this season with 18 players who have never played in a collegiate game and two new assistant coaches. The way this group was able to come together has been inspiring. A sincere thank you to everyone who has supported us all year – family, friends, athletic staff, faculty and the fans!"

The game's first goal came 4:25 into the third with senior Celeste Veensta (Alkmaar, The Netherlands) redirecting a pass from junior Nicole Krozser (Boonton, N.J.).

Senior Morgan Mesenbrink (Hartland, Wis.) made it 2-0 with 11:42 remaining in regulation. She knocked the ball into the back of the net after controlling a pass from junior Lia Parker (East Stroudsburg, Pa.).

Bentley's only goal came with eight minutes left, a penalty stroke from sophomore defender Emily Crowell (Oakland, Maine/Messalonskee HS).

The Falcons, number seven in this week's Penn Monto NFHCA Division II coaches poll, had limited scoring opportunities as shots favored the home team, 12-3, and penalty corners were 6-4 Warriors. Two of Bentley's shots and three of the penalty corners came in the fourth quarter.

Freshman Mia Trottie (Cinnaminson, N.J./Bishop Eustace HS) made five saves for Bentley, which finished its season at 14-6.

East Stroudsburg, 16-4, will advance to face top-ranked Shippensburg University on Friday in the semifinals.