The No. 5 North Carolina field hockey team (6-2, 1-1 ACC) hosts the top two teams in the country this weekend, with No. 1 Syracuse visiting Friday and No. 2 Duke coming to Henry Stadium on Sunday.
How do they play?
Both teams are well-rounded, putting pressure on their opponents all over the field. Each team possesses a potent scoring offense — Syracuse (7-0, 2-0 ACC) ranks fourth in the country in goals per game, while Duke (8-0, 2-0 ACC) is tied at No. 11 nationally. Both teams also allow fewer than 1.25 goals per game and are ranked in the top 10 in goal margin this season.
Who stands out?
Syracuse boasts an explosive back in Lies Lagerweij. The junior has become one the best scorers in the nation while also solidifying the defense for the Orange.
Lagerweij leads the Orange in points and finishes at an alarming rate — scoring on eight of her 14 shots on goal.
Duke also boasts a prolific scorer in forward Heather Morris, who has eight goals on 33 shots through eight games. She is the Blue Devils' go-to scoring threat, leading Duke in points, shots and shots on goal.
What is their biggest weakness?
UNC will have to be in top form, as the weaknesses are few and far between for its weekend foes.
