LEWISBURG, Pa. – In a battle between two of the top defenses in the nation, the American University field hockey team came up short in a 1-0 road loss to Patriot League foe Bucknell on Saturday.

The Eagles fell to 5-4 overall on the season and 1-1 in the league, while the Bison improved to 5-2 overall and 1-0 in the Patriot League.

Bucknell got on the scoreboard early in the game, as Cassie Lawrence rebounded her own shot, initially saved by AU goalkeeper Kate McBeath, to find the back of the net just six and a half minutes into the contest. However, both defenses, which rate in the top 15 nationally in goals against average, were able to prevent another score, as the Bison held on for the one goal victory.

 Shots were nearly even on both sides, with American holding a slight 6-5 edge. AU also was awarded five penalty corners, compared to three for Bucknell, while both goalkeepers registered three saves.

 “It was a tough, well-fought contest by both teams, played primarily in the midfield with limited scoring opportunities,” said American head coach Steve Jennings. “Give credit to Bucknell, they were able to get a goal early on in the first half, and we were never able to put enough pressure on their deep defense to get the equalizer.

“We're disappointed obviously in the result, but we look forward to getting back on track tomorrow against Temple.”

The Eagles head out of conference for tomorrow's game, visiting No. 15 Temple in a 2:00 p.m. contest.