SLIPPERY ROCK, PA. – Pace University Field Hockey put together a strong effort on Sunday afternoon but came up just short in a 2-1 setback at Slippery Rock University. The non-conference result moves the Setters to 0-2 in the young season.

After a scoreless opening quarter, the hosts found the game's first breakthrough in the 29th minute, converting on a deflection in front of the cage to take a 1-0 advantage into halftime. The Setters generated momentum after the break, producing three shots in the third frame while goalkeeper Morgan Strecker came up with a pair of key saves to keep the contest within reach.

Pace finally broke through in the fourth quarter. Off a penalty corner in the 52nd minute, Katelyn Fairhurst delivered a pass into the circle that Anne Kopec finished to level the game at 1-1. It marked Kopec's second goal of the season and Fairhurst's first assist of the 2025 campaign.

The Rock answered quickly, however, reclaiming the lead just over three minutes later with the eventual game-winner in the 55th minute. Despite continued pressure and two late corners, the Blue and Gold were unable to find the equalizer down the stretch.

Kopec led the Setters' offense with her goal on two shots, while Carlotta Oschmann also paced the attack with two attempts and three corner insertions. Strecker went the distance in goal, tallying three saves. As a team, Pace held a 5-3 edge in penalty corners, including three in the final quarter.

The Setters will continue their season-opening road swing on Wednesday, traveling to No. 6 Bloomsburg University for a 3:00 p.m. start time.