SWEET BRIAR, Va.- The Sweet Briar College field hockey team concluded its season opening four-game home stand with a match against Hood College on Friday evening. The visiting Blazers came out of the gates fast on their way to a 10-0 victory.

After conceding eight first-half goals, the Vixen defense stepped up tremendously in the second half. Over the final 20 minutes of play, Sweet Briar was able to maintain possession and control the tempo of the game.

Junior Emily Dodson had another solid performance in goal, making 11 saves and clearing a number of other potential threats. First-year Kierstan Mullins chipped in with a defensive save, the first of her collegiate career.

The Vixens will now take a week off and return to action next Saturday, Sept. 24, when they travel to Belmont Abbey College. The match is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start.