WASHINGTON, D.C. - Appalachian State University field hockey was in our nation's capital for its second game in as many days on Sunday but came up short with a 5-1 loss to host American.

"We took a step in the right direction to continue our process of getting better every day," said head coach Meghan Dawson. "The team came out well and played a tough first half against a really good opponent in American."

The Eagles (3-1) won their third straight match after starting the season 0-1 thanks to five goals including two in the first half and three in the second. The Mountaineers' (1-3) lone goal came on a corner in the 67th minute from senior Caroline Phillips, her third of the season. She was assisted by both Savanna Sheridan and Taylor Cimbalist.

C. Phillips now leads the team in goals, points (8), shots (11), and shots on goal (7). That marked the first helper for Sheridan and Cimbalist notched her fifth, which leads the team.

The home team held the advantage in shots (20-10) and corners (5-3), but App State tallied more saves with seven compared to American's five. In goal, Cristina Ceppi had six of those saves with the seventh being a team save.

"The first half was the best defense our team has played so far this season," Dawson added. "I am excited for us to continue to get better and hopefully that will show up on the scoreboard."

Next up, Appalachian State travels to Muncie, Ind. and faces Ball State on Saturday, Sept. 12 beginning at 2 p.m.