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In a highly anticipated matchup with the Clarksburg Coyotes, the field hockey team outlasted the defending state champs 3–2 Wednesday night to open their season with a win.

The Vikes had to play without the guidance of coach Alexandra Skiest, who was attending back to school night at Ashburton Elementary School.

“I think it motivated us to work harder and make her proud,” forward Nora McIntyre said.

The squad opened the game with an early goal by McIntyre, but the Coyotes quickly responded with a goal of their own to tie the game at 1–1.

Afterwards the momentum was all with the Vikings, who put the game away with two more goals, including one from forward Elsa Bjornlund and another by McIntyre.

McIntryre’s impressive performance was key in disrupting the Clarksburg game plan of a controlling offense and a stingy defense.

“[My goals] can be directly attributed to running the ball up the sides, and great passes from [my teammates] which were sent to the post of the goal where I was,” McIntyre said.

The Vikes (1–0) will try to stay undefeated as they play their first away game against the Sherwood Warriors on Friday at 7:15.