Graphic courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin (This content was originally published in our newsletter)

Dukes beat Scarlet Knights – JMU (6-1) used suffocating defense to beat Rutgers in a close Sunday matchup. The Dukes and Scarlet Knights were tied at 7 with just over five minutes to go in the second half. JMU scored the final three goals of the game to win. 

Defense wins championships – If JMU makes a run at the national title this season, it’ll be because of its defense. In the six games since allowing 18 goals to UNC in the season opener, JMU has held every opponent under 10 goals. The Dukes are allowing an average of seven goals per game in their last six games. 

Hanna Haven continues strong play – She scored three goals and added an assist against Rutgers. On the season, Haven has 15 goals and 17 assists. The senior attacker is JMU’s most reliable offensive threat, and the Dukes will need her to keep playing well if they want to make a deep NCAA Tournament run.

Up next – JMU hosts Temple (3-4) on Saturday. That’s another winnable game for the Dukes, who are looking to keep their winning streak alive.