The American University field hockey team held a 24-11 advantage in shots, but homestanding Bucknell capitalized on its opportunities in its 3-1 victory Saturday afternoon in Lewisburg, Pa. The defeat is the Eagles' first conference loss of the season.

Bucknell (6-9, 2-2 PL) struck first in the game with a 24th minute goal off the stick of Kelly Stefanowicz to take a 1-0 advantage. American (7-7, 3-1 PL) responded less than four minutes later on a Natalie Ellenberger rebound off a penalty corner to draw even at one. The score remained tied heading to halftime despite AU holding a 13-5 advantage in shots over the opening 35 minutes of play.

In the second half, a similar trend continued as the Eagles outshot Bucknell, 11-6, although they were unable to find the back of the net. The difference in the game proved to be a pair of second-half scores by Bucknell's Katie Durkin, which came in the 39th and 65th minutes.

In addition to holding the decisive shots advantage, AU also generated 14 penalty corners compared to only seven for the Bison. Bucknell goalkeeper Erica Perrine recorded 11 saves to earn the victory.

Despite the loss, the Eagles still control their own destiny for the right to host the upcoming Patriot League Tournament on November 4-5. American and Lafayette will square off next Saturday in Easton, Pa., with the winner claiming the top seed in the tournament.

Prior to the Lafayette matchup, the Eagles will first turn their attention to Georgetown tomorrow, October 23 for a 12 p.m. start at Jacobs Field. Before the game, AU's three senior student-athletes -- Melissa Casale, Tatum Dyer, and Ellenberger -- will be honored in a Senior Day ceremony. The contest will be carried live on Eagles Vision TV.