The Randolph High School field hockey team earned its first tie of the season on Monday, Sept. 16, battling Mount Olive to a hard-fought 1-1 draw on the road. The result was followed two days later by a 4-0 loss to Montville, bringing the Rams’ overall record to 1-5.

Randolph covered Monday’s Mount Olive matchup where the Rams, coming off a win over Mendham, held Mount Olive scoreless through a strong first quarter. The Marauders broke through in the second quarter, however, capitalizing on a scramble in the circle to take a 1-0 lead.

Randolph responded with a resilient defense, led by senior captain Bowie Manning and sophomore Leah Wiberg, who helped prevent Mount Olive from extending its lead.

In the final minutes of the fourth quarter, sophomore Julia Manganiello capitalized on a rebound off the Mount Olive goalkeeper’s pads, striking the equalizer to bring the game to 1-1.

“Watching us come together and continue to push through a very exciting game was a huge step in the right direction,” junior captain Allyson Ferry said. “I could feel the intensity like it was fire. We all wanted to dominate the game, and we didn’t give up. That’s what’s most important.”

The game proceeded to 7-on-7 overtime, where senior forward Catalina Martinez, senior captain Jillian Liebhauserand senior Avery Gamsby worked to advance the ball upfield. Despite several attempts, Randolph couldn’t break the deadlock before time expired.

Freshman goalkeeper Mia Briganti made four key saves in the match.

“We’re making great progress and proving ourselves as competitors,” Manning said. “We have immense potential, and we know it. The girls here are eager to prove what they’ve got and that energy is palpable on the field. We’re capitalizing on every opportunity, and honestly, I couldn’t be prouder.”

Randolph will host Hackettstown next on Monday, Sept. 22 at 4 p.m.