Stanford’s overtime escape against No. 3 Duke earns a place in program history

Stanford’s field-hockey team had to win this one twice in spirit: first by recovering from a lost lead, then by finishing the job in overtime.

The Cardinal beat No. 3 Duke 3–2 on Friday, Oct. 9, matching the highest-ranked victory in program history. For Saratoga readers following nearby Stanford, it was a result with more significance than an ordinary entry in the win column.

Stanford led early, trailed 2–1 in the third quarter and equalized in the fourth before scoring the overtime winner. Ten goalkeeper saves helped keep the upset within reach.

The win moved the Cardinal to 8–4 overall and 1–3 in the ACC. Duke dropped to 9–3 and 4–1. Stanford’s official report places Friday’s result alongside its win over No. 3 Michigan State on Aug. 31, 2001.

The next chance to watch comes quickly. Stanford hosts No. 8 Wake Forest at Varsity Turf on Sunday, Oct. 11, at noon Pacific, with Fan Appreciation Day planned. A landmark Friday has made that next home match considerably more interesting.

Sources: Stanford official report and official box score.