CHARLOTTE, N.C. (JMU Athletics) – Ten Dukes found this scoring column as James Madison lacrosse defeated Charlotte, 20-10, in American Conference play at Jerry Richardson Stadium on Saturday evening.

Three different JMU (7-6, 3-1 American) players logged hat tricks. Senior Jordan Peterson led the attack with five goals and an assist, achieving a career high in scores. Brianna Mennella also tallied six points, comprised of three goals and three assists. Olivia Matthews scored three times on 10 shots. Olivia Rongo led the defense, causing five turnovers and gathering three ground balls.

Abigail Beattie got the start at goalkeeper, making three saves in 46 minutes played and earning the win. Emily Evans entered in the fourth quarter, making a pair of saves.

The 49ers (6-6, 1-2 American) were led by Avery Olsen’s four points, consisting of two goals and two assists. Katie Ling received the start in the cage, making five saves.

How it Happened

First Quarter – James Madison 2, Charlotte 3
• After the Dukes opened the game with back-to-back goals within the first two minutes, three straight scores from the 49ers gave Charlotte the lead late in the first.

Second Quarter – James Madison 11, Charlotte 5
• The Dukes piled on in the second quarter, embarking on a 6-0 run with three goals from Peterson, to give JMU an 8-3 lead with just under five minutes to play.
• Both squads traded blows in the final minutes of the half, but the Dukes maintained the advantage and held a six-goal lead at the break.
• JMU outshot the 49ers 23-14 in the half.

Third Quarter – James Madison 17, Charlotte 6
• JMU continued to score easily to open the half, finding the back of the net four times in the first seven minutes. Mennella scored twice during the run.
• The Dukes closed the frame scoring back-to-back to hold an 11-point lead.
• The 49ers were held to only two shots on goal in the third.

Fourth Quarter – James Madison 20, Charlotte 10
• After opening the frame with a pair of scores, JMU allowed a 4-0 run for Charlotte, closing James Madison’s lead to 19-10.
• A goal for the Dukes in the closing seconds of the game put JMU up by double digits and gave them the win.

Game Notes
• Peterson’s hat trick is her fourth of the season.
• Mennella’s hat trick is her second of the year.
• All three of Matthews’s hat tricks have come in conference play.
• Rongo has forced five turnovers in four games this season.
• Avery Bickell’s goal was the first of her collegiate career.

Up Next

The Dukes will head back to Harrisonburg to host Georgetown at Sentara Park on Wednesday, April 8. First draw is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

— JMU Athletics —