Defender Kelly Pelcher scored a crucial first half goal as the Misericordia University field hockey team remained in a tie for first place in the Freedom Conference. The Cougars defeated FDU-Florham 1-0 in Madison, NJ.

It had been two years and one day since Pelcher, an important cog in MU defense, had scored a goal for the Cougars. Her strike off a penalty corner 23 minutes in was assisted by freshman Gianna Handza and ended up being all the visitors needed.

Freshman goalie Haley Brandt, making just her second career start, turned in another solid performance with six saves.

Pelcher and Handza also picked up yellow cards late, with a pair of FDU players and MU's Amanda Blank also being shown green cards. FDU held an 8-6 advantage in shots but couldn't find a way past Brandt.

The Cougars improve to 7-5 overall and 3-0 in Freedom Conference play. MU faces off with 2-0 King's in Wilkes-Barre on Thursday.