For the GW women’s soccer team, sometimes it comes down to the way the ball bounces. At least that was the case Thursday night when a deflected save in front of GW’s goal allowed James Madison University to score the game’s only goal in a 1-0 JMU win.

“Honestly I thought we played a very good game,” GW head coach Tanya Vogel said. “James Madison is traditionally a very strong team in our region and we played them well.”

The loss dropped the Colonials to 2-2-2, while the Dukes improved to 4-2.

After a scoreless first half in which JMU out-shot the Colonials 13-5, the Dukes scored early in the second half at the 58-minute mark. GW goaltender junior Anna Handzlik allowed a rebound to sneak past her.

Overall, the Lady Dukes out-shot GW 28-13 in the shutout loss.

“We really need to work on finishing our opportunities around the goal,” Vogel said. “We get the chances and we just need to put them away.”

JMU goalie Jessica Hussey had seven saves, while Handzlik had nine.

“Our defenders played very well, especially our goalie, Anna,” Vogel said. “She has played great all season.”

The Colonials will open up their home season Wednesday at Mount Vernon at 4 p.m. against George Mason.

“(George Mason is) very similar to James Madison,” Vogel said. “They are from the same conference and are a very respectable team. It is our first home game and we are really looking forward to it.”