MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. – Davenport was feeling confident after picking up their first win of the season over Western Michigan, and looked to continue that trend against another in-state opponent in the Chippewas from Central Michigan. The Chips came into Sunday's matchup 1-2, and never having defeated Davenport in seven games.
 
Sunday, March 24
Final Score: Davenport 18 – Central Michigan 11
Records: DU (2-4), CMU (1-3)
 
STUMBLING OUT OF THE GATE
 
Similar to the trend that has been noticeable this season, the Panthers fell behind in the first quarter. The Chippewas were able to put up six on the board to the Panthers four, leading 6-2 after 15 minutes of play.
 
BACK ON THE PROWL
 
DU's offense stepped up their game in the second quarter, as they fired 18 shots at the Central Michigan net, and the Panthers were able to score five before halftime. Davenport really took control of the play in general as well, only allowing three shots in the second, none of which got by Ben Stoklas.
 
Davenport rode their momentum into the second half with five goals in the third quarter, with Central Michigan only mustering up a single tally. Central Michigan tried to get the offense going in the final quarter, as they threw 10 shots on goal, but Stoklas did his best only allowing four in the fourth quarter and making some big saves in the process. DU would score six more times before the final whistle, and won their second game of the season by a final score of 18-11.
 
NOTABLE PERFORMANCES
 
Action always begins with a face-off, and Connor Foster was excellent on the dot on Sunday, winning 24 of his 30 draws. Avery Buckius and Blake McDonald each scored four goals for the Panthers, with McDonald adding four assists as well. Josh Jubenville had another incredible performance offensively, putting up five goals for the Panthers, moving his total up to 20 this season.
 
WHO'S NEXT?
 
A busy weekend upcoming for the Panthers. On Thursday, they take on longtime rival Grand Valley State. The Lakers are 3-1, and ranked #7 in D2. That matchup will take place at the GVSU Lacrosse Stadium over in Allendale at 7:00 p.m.
 
The Panthers finally come home to the turf Saturday for a matchup against Pittsburgh. The Panthers are 5-4 this season, and coming off victories against George Washington and East Carolina. Face-off is set for 2 p.m. on Saturday.
 
Davenport will not have much time to catch their breath as Minnesota-Duluth comes to town the following afternoon. The Bulldogs are 6-0 heading into the weekend, and #1 in D2 rankings. Minnesota-Duluth will have some fatigue of their own Sunday, as they will be playing a matchup earlier that same morning over at Grand Valley State against Dayton. The game is set for a 3 p.m. start time.