MADISON, N.J. - No. 19 Eastern Field Hockey dropped a 3-1 decision at FDU-Florham on Wednesday night. While the Eagles and Devils are in a two-way tie for first place in the MAC Freedom, the Devils have the inside track toward the top seed in the post-season tournament because of tonight's head-to-head result.

In the first minute of the match, Lauren Gay put a shot on net, but it was saved by FDU-Florham goalkeeper Amy Defnet. Gay had a another opportunity seconds later, but an FDU defensive save kept the game scoreless.

The Devils scored the first goal of the game in the 18th minute. Gabby Allen scored from close range to give FDU-Florham the 1-0 lead. The Devils had a 9-4 edge in first-half shots.

Gina Miller buried a rebound in the 42nd minute. Danielle Frasca fired the initial shot that created the goal.

That lead, however, was short-lived. FDU-Florham took the lead back in the 48th minute on a goal from Brooke Sherwin.

The Eagles had a chance to draw even in the 54th minute, but Jessica Kinzler was denied twice. Kinzler's first shot was saved by Defnet. Kinzler won the battle for the rebound, but her follow-up attempt was saved by a defender on the goal line.

FDU-Florham doubled their lead in the 57th minute. Karen Blacklock deflected the ball into the top of the net from close range.

Head Coach Camrin Azzarano said of the game "We have to make better decisions and be composed at times. At other times we need to play harder and stronger."

Both teams finished the game with 10 shots on goal.

The Eagles will host Manhattanville College on Saturday at noon.