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S EVEN DAYS AGO, the University of Mary Washington field hockey team subdued 18th-ranked Catholic 2-1 in overtime. Today, the Eagles are confronted by the same challenge when Christopher Newport visits the Battleground Complex.

Both teams are riding six-game winning streaks and while the NCAA Division III tournament is more than a month away, today's outcome could influence whether the Eagles or Captains have a better chance of advancing.

After losing its first two games, CNU has reeled off six straight victories, gaining the 18th spot in the National Field Hockey Coaches Association's poll--the Captains' first-ever national ranking.

And although the CNU program is in only its sixth year, UMW players and coaches are not likely to take it lightly following last year's 4-0 setback. The Eagles won the three previous encounters, 3-2 in overtime, 4-0 and then 3-0 two seasons ago.

Besides a competitive battle, area fans might be attracted to the complex on Hanover Street due to the local connection on both sides. CNU has eight area players on its squad, including junior Ashley Traylor (Colonial Forge), who leads the Captains with nine goals.

UMW (8-2) has only one player from the area, defender Emily Nicotera (Chancellor), but assistant coach Robin Woodie (Stafford) is coming off a perfect 2005 season when she guided the Stafford Indians to the Group AAA state title.

Game time is 4:30 p.m. and admission is free.

Freshman Nick Wallace (Riverbend) booted a game-tying 25-yard field goal as time expired, then added a 37-yarder in the first overtime to lift Indiana University of Pennsylvania to a 23-20 victory over PSAC West rival Edinboro last Saturday.

Wallace is IUP's second-leading scorer with 21 points (3-of-5 field goals and 12-of-14 PATs).

Senior wide receiver D.D. Boxley (King George) is reportedly over his hamstring woes and is ready to contribute again, James Madison head football coach Mickey Matthews said Monday.

After sitting out the previous game against Northeastern, Boxley played last week against Virginia Military, but did not have any catches. He is expected to be close to full strength this weekend when the 13th-ranked Dukes (3-1) play host to Rhode Island.