HOPKINTON – Reigning Division III state champion Hopkinton defeated visiting Campbell 6-0 Monday night in its 2021 home opener.
The Hawks were led by senior Ashlee Brehio who scored three goals including the deciding goal that put the game out of reach within the second half.
Brehio’s first goal, scored in the 33’ minute in the first half, was the goal that rejuvenated the Hawks. Their strong scoring attempts within the first 20 minutes ranged from centering passes across the field to straight on shots, but all failed to find the back of the net.
Until the senior’s goal slid past the keeper, it felt as it each ball was going to be a near-miss.
The senior would’ve had four goals if her first shot on goal hadn’t soared above the crossbar and dinging it along the way.
Brehio, an Elon University commit, also scored three goals against Campbell in last year’s Division III state championship game.
Hopkinton (2-0) has started the season strong and the extremely early showings are that the three-time defending state champions haven’t lost a step.
Though it’s still early – after all it is only game two – the offense in two games has already scored 16 goals while goalkeeper Emily Fleegle and her defense are yet to let a goal allowed on them.
The Hawks’ quest to another state final resumes on Thursday when it plays at Raymond. First touch is scheduled for 4 p.m.