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Lakeland Grad Helps U.S. Pull Off Another Field Hockey Upset

MOHEGAN LAKE, N.Y. -- The Summer Olympics could not have started better for Mohegan Lake’s Melissa Gonzalez and the U.S. women’s field hockey team.

Melissa Gonzalez, a Mohegan Lake native and former start at Lakeland High School, has helped the United States post two upsets at the Summer Games in Rio.

Melissa Gonzalez, a Mohegan Lake native and former start at Lakeland High School, has helped the United States post two upsets at the Summer Games in Rio.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of TeamUSA.org

The U.S. defeated Australia, ranked No. 3 in the world, on 2-1 Monday. The victory comes on the heels of a 2-1 on Saturday over Argentina, which was ranked No. 2 in the world. Gonzalez, a midfielder, has been instrumental in both victories, using her speed and stick skills to help create opportunities in the offensive zone for Team USA.

“"We're in a good place now but it's crucial, very important, to keep focused on the next match ahead," coach Craig Parnham said.

The U.S. plays its next game on Wednesday against Japan.

Gonzalez, a graduate of Lakeland High School, is playing in her second Olympics for Team USA. She also played at the University of Connecticut.

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