After holding a potent Army attack to five goals on Saturday, the Massachusetts men’s lacrosse team can only hope to demonstrate that same effort and intensity this Saturday at Hartford.

“You hope that you can bring the same type of intensity everyday,” UMass coach Greg Cannella said about his team’s physicality in the defensive zone.

The UMass defensive unit helped propel the Minutemen to an 8-5 victory over No. 12 Army, keeping offensive studs Jeremy Boltus and Garrett Thul in check, as the duo was limited to three goals and one assist.

Tom Celentani and Jake Smith were chosen as the co-UMass Athletes of the Week for their performances on Saturday. The pair highlighted the Minutemen defense in the effort.

“Tommy brings not only a physical presence to the game, but also a leadership presence,” Cannella said. “[Goalie Tim McCormack] is really the leader on that side, but Tommy directs a lot of traffic and has been a super leader for us.”

Smith has capitalized on his opportunities during the fall and preseason after seeing limited playing time during his rookie season. The Medfield, Mass. native appeared in only six games, but now finds himself in a starting role.

Cannella does not get caught up in the individual accolades, however, and his team reflects that mentality as well.

“The Athlete of the Week should be the UMass defense and that’s how we look at things and those guys will be the first [ones] to tell you that,” Cannella said.

The Maroon and White withstood a pair of Army extra-man opportunities by not surrendering a goal. The defense was particularly effective clearing the ball out of the zone, going 21-for-24 on the afternoon.

UM cannot afford to be content with last week’s victory, as the Minutemen travel to Connecticut to face Hartford this weekend. Cannella expects his defense to continue to bring physicality, intensity and unity to each game.

“It’s a difficult thing, especially when you face a team like Hartford with a lot of firepower. It’s hard to stop six guys at once.”

McCormack was stellar between the pipes last time out, surrendering only five goals on 22 shots while making nine saves in the process. The captain appeared to pick up right where he left off a year ago, building off the experience he gained from his first full season as the starting goalkeeper.

The UMass defense can be sure to expect an aggressive opponent on Saturday, as the Minutemen embarrassed the Hawks last year, 20-10, on Feb. 20 at Garber Field.

Stephen Sellner can be reached at [email protected].