Northwest Rallies to Defeat Benton 4-3 in Thrilling 'Dog Bowl' Victory

By: Carrie Miner Yaple | Sportzwire | September 10, 2025 | Photo courtesy Carrie Miner Yaple @v1sion_media

Hermanofski’s Late Surge Caps Off Comeback Win After Pre-Game Milestone Honor

The Northwest girls field hockey team pulled off a dramatic 4-3 comeback victory over the Benton Tigers in this year’s highly anticipated edition of The Dog Bowl, held on Northwest’s home turf.

Before the action began, senior standout Ashlyn Hermanofski was honored at midfield for surpassing the 100-point milestone in her high school career — a combination of goals and assists that reflects her consistent impact on the field. Fittingly, Hermanofski played a crucial role in the win, scoring two decisive goals in the final quarter to lift her team to victory.

Benton came out strong, with Mylee Rutherford leading the charge. Rutherford scored twice in the first period, first off an assist from Malaia Hart and then again with help from Isabel Sorber. She completed her hat trick in the second period with an unassisted goal, giving the Tigers a commanding 3-0 lead.

But Northwest refused to back down.

Abby Zagata put the Rangers on the board late in the second period, cutting the deficit to 3-1 and giving Northwest much-needed momentum heading into halftime. In the third, Hartley Crawford continued the surge with a goal assisted by Zagata, narrowing the gap to 3-2.

The final period belonged to Hermanofski. With the clock winding down and the pressure mounting, the senior delivered — scoring twice to complete the Rangers’ comeback and secure the 4-3 win in front of their home crowd.

Northwest controlled much of the game’s pace statistically, earning 12 penalty corners and registering 7 shots on goal. Goalkeeper Maliya Crispell was solid in net with 5 saves.  Crispell met Rutherford with a huge stop in the circle late in the fourth, shutting down a dangerous fast break as Rutherford charged in looking to score her fourth goal and tie the game — a game-saving moment that helped sealed the win for Northwest. Benton, while efficient early, finished with 5 corners, 8 shots on goal, and 2 saves from their goalkeeper.

The victory marks another memorable chapter in The Dog Bowl rivalry and showcases Northwest’s grit and depth. With their senior leader Hermanofski continuing to shine, the Rangers look poised for a strong finish to the season.

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