In an exhilarating non-conference showdown, Stockton University’s women’s field hockey team (11-3, 1-1 NJAC) triumphed with a heart-stopping 3-2 victory over Cabrini University (6-7). Allie Palumbo (#2), hailing from Mantua and representing Clearview, emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal with less than four minutes remaining to seal the win for Stockton.

The Ospreys started strong, with Makayla Alessi (#16) from Manahawkin and Southern Regional, finding the net at 11:52 in the first period, giving Stockton a 1-0 lead. Although Cabrini equalized shortly after, Palumbo’s consistent offensive threat pushed Stockton ahead again in the 27th minute, assisting EB Rafferty (#7) in securing a 2-1 advantage.

After a goalless third quarter, Cabrini managed to level the score at 2-2 early in the fourth. However, Stockton responded swiftly, as Kiera Lyons (#1) and Carlee Thompson (#5) combined, allowing Palumbo to net her NJAC-leading 11th goal of the season and secure the 3-2 lead—their fourth game-winning goal of the season.

The game’s closing moments saw Cabrini pressing with a man-up advantage, but Stockton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Czaczkowski (#00) from Jackson Memorial, showcased her prowess with crucial saves, preserving the narrow lead and ensuring the Ospreys’ well-deserved victory.

Czaczkowski, with seven remarkable saves, earned her second win of the season. Looking forward, Stockton University will resume NJAC Play against Ramapo College in Mahwah, NJ, on Saturday at 4 pm, aiming to build on this thrilling win.