WASHINGTON –– As time wound down in Lewisburg,
Jill DuVarney was the difference maker who ended up capitalizing on a ball sent into the circle, guiding it across the goal line to give American University field hockey the Friday night, conference win over Bucknell, 1-0.
Notable
- The Eagles, now 1-0 in league play in 2026, are on a 21-match win streak in the Patriot League regular season, not having dropped a game since October of 2022.
- DuVarney's goal is her second of the season, and her career, and it was her first game winner.
How It Happened
Both sides went scoreless in the first period and second period. By halftime, American had registered nine shots, four on target, while Bucknell had not managed one. The Eagles led 5-0 in penalty corners as well; despite this, AU was unable to break the stalemate.
The third period saw an uptick in offensive attempts from Bucknell, the Bison registering four shots in the period, but still, the teams were scoreless through three periods.
It was with 34.9 seconds left in regulation that the winning goal–the only goal–was scored.
Sophie Willemse, from way outside the 25 yard line, sent a drag pass into the circle. Bucknell's Sarah Althouse tried to save it, but the ball got past her and DuVarney was there to snag the bounce and make sure it counted for AU.
Teagan Harmon would end up not having to make a single save in the contest, as all six of Bucknell's shots were off target.
From Head Coach Jennings
"We are very happy to come away with a hard fought win on the road against a Bucknell team that played and coached an excellent game," said
Steve Jennings postgame.
"Things looked promising in the first half, but our inability to finish ended up getting us into trouble in the second half when Bucknell hit its stride. In the end, it came down to one play, and we were fortunate to be on the right side of the outcome.
"We will look to take the lessons from this game into Sunday's contest against Lock Haven."
Coming Up
The Eagles remain out on the road, battling with Lock Haven in Central Pa. on Sunday, Sept. 20 at 12 p.m.
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