NEWS RELEASE
Feb. 28, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gavin Stone, Director of Media Relations, JMU Athletics
gavinstone12345@jmu.edu
HARRISONBURG, Va. – the No. 2-ranked James Madison team capitalized on a strong second-half performance to secure a 21-12 victory over UAlbany at Sentara Park this Sunday afternoon.
For the fifth consecutive game, the Dukes (5-0) witnessed three different players achieving hat tricks, maintaining their impressive streak. Additionally, eight different goal scorers contributed as they reached 20 or more goals for the second consecutive game. JMU’s offensive prowess was evident as they outshot UAlbany (0-5) with a 33-23 margin and forced 12 turnovers, compared to the Great Danes’ seven.
Forward duo Maddie Epke and Katelyn Morgan spearheaded the Dukes’ scoring endeavors, each netting five goals, while Kacey Knobloch secured her second hat trick of the season. Knobloch also excelled in assists, leading the team with four, supported by two from Epke and one each from Taylor Marchetti and Morgan. Defensively, the Dukes were led by Nicole Marshall, Courtney Quirk, and Ava Bleckley. Quirk led the team with three ground balls and two caused turnovers, while Bleckley secured three ground balls and a caused turnover and Marshall caused three turnovers and picked up a ground ball as well.
Grace McCauley led UAlbany’s charge offensively with five goals, backed by Katie Pascale‘s hat trick and two assists, along with Bryar Hogg‘s two goals and three assists. Pascale showcased her defensive prowess, garnering three ground balls and a caused turnover. In the draw circle, the Great Danes held a slight advantage with 19 draw controls compared to JMU’s 18. Pascale and Epke each secured 11 draw controls for their respective teams, while Bleckley notched four draw controls for the Dukes for the second game in a row.
The Dukes begin a two-game road trip where they will face Furman (1-3) in Greenville, S.C. on Saturday, March 2 at 11:00 a.m. The Dukes will then travel to College Park, Md. to face Maryland (3-1) on Sunday, March 10 at 11:00 a.m.
About JMU Women’s Lacrosse
James Madison University Women’s Lacrosse program is recognized for its consistent success and competitive performance in NCAA Division I competition, driven by a culture of excellence and teamwork. For more information, please visit https://jmusports.com/sports/womens-lacrosse