Villanova, Pa.– The Villanova Wildcats (2-1) take down the James Madison Dukes (1-2) in their home opener on Wednesday.
 
The Wildcats controlled the first half of the game despite the score being tied 1-1 at halftime. Their first goal came just 5 minutes into the game as Allison Breed buried one behind the Dukes goalkeeper, off of a beautiful through ball from Niki Molina.
 
"This team believes in the process," said head coach Chris McLain. "It's great to see improvement in their play and in their confidence. To beat two high level RPI teams back to back is huge for this program. This didn't start just this off season, this growth started two years ago and the players are finally reaping the rewards of all their hard work."
 
The Dukes got their first goal off of a header from Abby Maltese. She was set up by Lizzy Lazzaro from near midfield on a free kick.
 
Molina also assisted on Villanova's second goal on a great pass to find Chloe O'Neill, who cut it back to the middle before sending a laser past the goalkeeper for her first goal of the season. This goal came just 3 and a half minutes into the second half.
 
The Wildcats then got their third goal of the game, which proved to be the game winner, from forward Ida DiClemente, with the assist coming from O'Neill.
 
James Madison wasn't done, and they cut it to a one goal deficit in the 87^thminute off of a goal from Haley Crawford. It was not enough however, and the Wildcats hung on to advance to 1-0 at home.
 
McLain also added "The staff went above and beyond to make sure the players were prepared for JMU. This preparation has been key to this early success. As long as these players continue to commit 100%, they will be ready for what the BIG EAST will bring."
 
Villanova's next game will be Sunday at home against Lehigh. Game time is scheduled for 5:00 PM.
 
Be sure to follow @NovaWSoccer on Twitter and Instagram and Villanova Women's Soccer on Facebook for up-to-date coverage.