Men's Lacrosse | 3/29/2019 9:38:00 PM

ALLENDALE, Mich. – The Panthers took on crosstown rival Grand Valley State on Thursday night and despite their early season struggles, were coming off back-to-back victories over Western Michigan and Central Michigan. DU was looking to make it five straight against the Lakers, the longest streak for either team in the series history.
 
Thursday, March 28
Final Score: Davenport 9 – Grand Valley State 10
Records: DU (2-5), GVSU (4-1)
Location: GVSU Lacrosse Stadium
 
STARTING ON TIME
 
In enemy territory, the Panthers knew a good start was important. However, that has been something they have struggled with early on this season. The Panthers came out strong in the first quarter on Thursday, scoring four times to the Lakers two in the first 15 minutes. In the second quarter the talented GVSU offense started to warm to the task, outscoring the Panthers 3-2 before halftime. Davenport still carried a one-goal lead heading into the locker room.
 
ANCHORS AWAY
 
In the second half, Davenport's offense fell quiet, as they were able to only put one notch on the scoreboard in the third quarter. Grand Valley would come out with three in the third, and had the momentum heading into the final quarter.
 
The game went back-and-forth in the fourth quarter. Davenport tied the game at eight early in the quarter, but the Lakers stormed back with two of their own to put the Panthers in a hole. Josh Jubenville scored to make it a one-goal game, and DU had possession late with a chance to tie the game. However, an errant pass that sailed out of bounds gave the Lakers possession, and the game, as they were able to sail away with the 10-9 win.
 
NOTABLE PERFORMANCES
 
Jubenville ended the game with his fifth-straight hat trick. Blake McDonald chipped in with a pair of goals himself.
 
WHO'S NEXT?
 
The Panthers finally come home for back-to-back games this weekend. On Saturday they take on Pittsburgh, who is 5-4 this season, and 1-1 in Continental Lacrosse Conference play. They are coming off convincing victories over George Washington and East Carolina last weekend. DU is 6-3-1 in the all-time series versus Pitt. Face-off is set for 2 p.m.
 
On Sunday, the Panthers go up against Minnesota-Duluth. The Bulldogs are 6-0, and ranked #1 in MCLA Division II. Though they have not played since St. Patrick's Day, Minnesota-Duluth will play two games on Sunday. At 7 a.m. they will take on Dayton over in Allendale, before taking a rest and playing the Panthers at 3 p.m.