GLASSBORO, N.J. - Upset-minded Haverford College nearly got its wish Saturday afternoon as the visiting Fords fell to host and No. 14 Rowan University, 2-1, in a non-conference field hockey thriller that opened the 2013 season for both teams.
Megan Holt pulled Haverford (0-1) even at the 49:52 mark of the game with her first of the season but Rowan (1-0) answered quickly, regaining a one-goal advantage with a score less than two minutes after Holt's tying tally.
The Profs put pressure on the Fords' defense over the next 10 minutes but Haverford goalie Lindsey Lopes came up with four saves to keep the visiting team within striking distance.
The Fords got off the final three shots of the game but were unable to find the equalizer that could have sent the game into overtime.
Lopes finished with nine saves and received help from Allison Martin who notched one defensive save in the loss. Rowan's Steph Colombo ended the win between the pipes with three saves, all in the second half.
Haverford gets to play at home for its next game, welcoming Lebanon Valley College to Swan Field for the Fords' home opener Wednesday at 4:40 p.m.