S. ABINGTON TWP. — The Abington Heights field hockey team honored its three seniors before playing Pittston Area Oct. 17, but it was one of those girls’ siblings who came through with the winning tally.
Sophomore Claudia Kozar scored off an assist from senior Dani Beamish with 14:53 remaining in the first half and the Comets held on for a 1-0 victory over the Patriots in a Wyoming Valley Conference Div. 1 game.
“I just jabbed it to Claudia and she’s really good at tipping it in,” Beamish said.
The win was special for Beamish who has played a big role in helping build up the program at Abington Heights.
“We haven’t been on our home field for a while, so it means a lot to the seniors,” she said.
Beamish also credited Comets head coach Samantha Krut for helping her develop as a player.
“She pushed me to put as much effort as I have onto the field,” Beamish said. “She’s definitely a really good coach.”
Kozar sported a wide smile when asked about scoring the game-winning goal to help the seniors, including her sister Nina,\ earn a victory on Senior Day.
“It makes me really happy that I scored the winning goal for them,” she said.
Abington Heights outshot Pittston Area, 16-4, and had 16 corners to Pittston Area’s one, but the Comets were unable to add to their lead. Patriots goalkeeper Sage Weidlich made 11 saves.
“Our corners were well played out, we just have to finish on our post,” Krut said. “Their goalkeeper played very well.”
Abington Heights goalkeeper MaKenna Thorpe made three saves to post a shutout.
According to Krut, the three seniors — Dani Beamish, Arla Davis and Nina Kozar — have made a big impact on the program.
“It’s hard to see those three go because they’re so strong and supportive on and off the field,” Krut said. “They’re always showing a commitment to the team. Arla is going to continue to play in college and she encouraged the girls to play more during the offseason. Dani’s attitude is so great and she brings positive energy to our team. Nina pulls our defense together. She changed from playing center back to sweeper and has done such a great job for the entire time she played with us.
“None of them are replaceable.”
