As they concluded their first half of the season, Catasauqua’s field hockey season continues to search for a sense of consistency as well as seeking their identity.

The Roughies recently suffered a 2-0 loss to Pen Argyl, a defeat that lowered their record to 3-5-1 overall. However, it did end a streak of five games in seven days and finally gave them a breather.

“We were able to hold a solid practice for the first time in a while,” said first-year head coach Julie Bisci. “We were able to look at some things and improve on the things we need to work on.

“But we have had some games where we just didn’t show up. We have pulled it all together at different times during the season, but we have to keep it going. People can look at our record and see us in an underdog role and underestimate us.

“We have to be more aggressive at times. In our last few games, we haven’t been able to finish.”

Bisci also noted how the team has worked to mesh together.

“We have a lot of different personalities,” she said. “We have worked hard to a certain extent, and then we have checked out. We have had trouble responding well after making a mistake. They have to realize that they are going to happen, and we bounce back.

“Often times, we find ourselves playing not to lose instead of trying to win. That has affected how they are scoring. We need some positive roles models and these girls have to step up and take charge.”

Bisci cited the play of former standout Quinn Bachman, who scored 27 of the team’s 37 goals last season.

“They realized last year that there was someone who could score for us,” stated Bisci in reference to Bachman. “She (Bachman) sometimes could score at will when we needed a goal. We need some players like that now.”

Bisci did highlight the play of seniors Jackie Crossley along with co-captains Jackie Garner and Selena Safadi, all of whom have played well throughout the season. Junior goalie Hannah Greenberg also has been solid in the nets this year.

She also stressed how her team has made strides since an opening - game, 9-1 loss to archrival Northampton. It was the first showdown against former Catty coach Carrie Saul.

“Our first game was an emotional one for the girls,” said Bisci. “In our second game, we played better in a 0-0 tie. Since then, we have improved in many ways. We do need to improve on things, but overall, we have had some growth.”

Bisci believes her team can battle through the second half of the season with contests that could tilt in their favor.

“I like our schedule over the next few weeks,” she said. “We can have some opportunities to do a lot of good things. We will regroup and look to get back on track.”