The Kent State field hockey team will have a difficult task Saturday as they matchup against the No. 3 ranked University of Connecticut Huskies in the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament.

The Flashes (11-10, 5-1 MAC) will head to Connecticut as underdogs against the powerful Huskies. UConn (16-2, 5-0 Big East) is currently riding a 10-game win streak into the first round of the NCAA tournament.

The Huskies are led by freshman sensation Charlotte Veltner. Veltner has totaled 13 goals and 11 assists on the season for the Huskies. Kent State will need to rely on its defense and tough style of play they have been accustomed to all season.

Kent State field hockey coach Kathleen Wiler talked about the approach her team needs to take into this game.

“We are prepared and are going to go out tomorrow and be who we are and do what we do to the very best of our ability,” Wiler said.

The Flashes will also look to supply a heavy offensive onslaught as seniors Hannah Faulkner, Julia Hofmann and Shannon Martin look to keep the dream season alive. The Flashes have had a great mix of offense and defense as of late, outscoring their last three opponents, 7-2.

Kent State will attempt to knock off the Huskies at 11: 30 a.m. in Storrs, Connecticut. The winner will face the winner of the Louisville/Stanford contest Sunday Nov. 16.

“This team has so much to give and loves being together, competing for the Kent State family,” Wiler said.

Contact Ricky Salcer at  [email protected].