Virginia maryland lacrosse. Virginia vs Maryland Lacrosse: Epic Overtime Battle Ends in Terrapins Victory

How did Maryland men’s lacrosse defeat top-ranked Virginia in overtime. What were the key takeaways from this thrilling matchup. Why was this game significant for both teams’ seasons.

The Battle of Lacrosse Titans: Virginia vs Maryland

In a highly anticipated matchup between two of college lacrosse’s powerhouses, the No. 4 Maryland Terrapins emerged victorious over the No. 1 Virginia Cavaliers in a nail-biting 14-13 overtime thriller. This game, which took place at Klöckner Stadium in Charlottesville, Virginia, showcased the immense talent and competitive spirit of both programs.

The clash between these long-standing rivals drew the largest crowd at Klöckner Stadium since 2013, highlighting the significance of this early-season encounter. As the game unfolded, it became clear that this was not just another regular-season matchup, but a potential preview of late-season tournament action.

Game Flow: A Rollercoaster of Momentum Shifts

The game was characterized by dramatic swings in momentum, keeping fans on the edge of their seats throughout. Here’s how the action unfolded:

• Maryland jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the first quarter
• Virginia stormed back, taking a 6-3 lead
• The Terrapins closed the gap before halftime
• Maryland outscored Virginia 6-3 in the third quarter, taking a 10-9 lead
• The Terps extended their lead to 12-9 early in the fourth quarter
• Virginia mounted a furious comeback, scoring three goals in the final 3:41 of regulation
• Daniel Kelly scored the game-winning goal for Maryland in overtime

Resilience and Determination: Virginia’s Comeback Effort

Despite facing a three-goal deficit late in the fourth quarter, the Virginia Cavaliers showcased their championship pedigree with a remarkable comeback. How did they manage to force overtime? The Cavaliers scored three goals in the final 3:41 of regulation, including two within a span of just 38 seconds in the last two minutes.

This display of resilience was reminiscent of Virginia’s 2019 national championship team, known for their ability to perform under pressure. While the comeback ultimately fell short in overtime, it demonstrated the Cavaliers’ mental toughness and never-say-die attitude.

Maryland’s Winning Formula: Patience and Precision

What factors contributed to Maryland’s victory in this closely contested match? The Terrapins’ success can be attributed to several key elements:

1. Goaltending: Freshman goalkeeper Brian Ruppel was exceptional, making 13 saves with a 51.9% save percentage
2. Offensive efficiency: Maryland capitalized on their possessions, particularly in settled situations
3. Defensive pressure: The Terps forced 16 Virginia turnovers, disrupting the Cavaliers’ offensive flow
4. Clutch performance: Daniel Kelly’s game-winning goal in overtime showcased Maryland’s ability to execute in high-pressure situations

Virginia’s Areas for Improvement: Balancing Aggression and Discipline

While Virginia demonstrated their potential as an elite team, the loss exposed some areas that require refinement. What aspects of their game did the Cavaliers struggle with?

Turnovers and Shot Selection

Virginia’s aggressive style of play, which often leads to quick strikes and transition goals, occasionally worked against them in this matchup. The team committed 16 turnovers, with five coming early in the game. Additionally, some ill-advised shots early in possessions, particularly in the third quarter, allowed Maryland to control the tempo and wear down the Virginia defense.

Shooting Efficiency

The Cavaliers had their worst shooting performance of the season, converting just 13 of their 46 shots (28.3%). Key offensive players like Connor Shellenberger and Xander Dickson struggled, each going 1-7 on the day. While some credit must be given to Maryland’s goaltender Brian Ruppel, Virginia will need to improve their shot selection and finishing to compete at the highest level.

Individual Performances: Standouts and Struggles

Which players made significant impacts on the game, and who faced challenges? Let’s examine some of the key individual performances:

Maryland Standouts

• Brian Ruppel: The freshman goalie’s 13 saves were crucial in securing the victory
• Daniel Kelly: Scored the game-winning goal in overtime

Virginia Notables

• Thomas McConvey: Efficient shooting, going 4-8
• Payton Cormier: Canadian attacker who performed well

Players Who Struggled

• Connor Shellenberger (UVA): Usually a dominant force, limited to 1-7 shooting
• Xander Dickson (UVA): Also held to 1-7 shooting

The Bigger Picture: Implications for the Season

How does this early-season loss impact Virginia’s outlook for the remainder of the year? While the defeat is undoubtedly disappointing for the Cavaliers, it’s important to view it in the context of the entire season.

This result, unlike Virginia’s midseason losses to Maryland last year, suggests that the Cavaliers are still very much in contention as an elite team. The close nature of the game and Virginia’s ability to compete with a top-ranked opponent indicate that with some refinement, they can challenge for national honors.

Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities

Virginia’s schedule doesn’t get any easier in the coming weeks. What tests await the Cavaliers? They face current #2 Notre Dame and #3 Duke over the next two weekends. These matchups present excellent opportunities for Virginia to bounce back, pick up quality wins, and solidify their position as a top contender.

Lessons Learned: Balancing Aggression and Control

What can Virginia take away from this loss to improve their performance against top-tier opponents? The key lesson appears to be finding the right balance between their naturally aggressive style and a more controlled approach when facing elite competition.

Adapting to Different Opponents

While Virginia’s high-tempo, transition-heavy style is often a significant advantage, it may need to be tempered against teams like Maryland that are equally skilled and well-coached. Learning when to push the pace and when to settle into more deliberate offensive sets will be crucial for the Cavaliers’ success against top-ranked opponents.

Discipline in Shot Selection

Improving shot selection and avoiding forced attempts early in possessions could help Virginia maintain possession and put less stress on their defense. This doesn’t mean abandoning their aggressive nature entirely, but rather being more selective about when to take risks.

The Significance of Early-Season Tests

Why are games like this Maryland-Virginia matchup so important in the landscape of college lacrosse? Early-season contests between top-ranked teams serve several purposes:

• They provide a measuring stick for teams to assess their strengths and weaknesses
• They offer valuable experience in high-pressure situations
• They can impact tournament seeding and at-large bid considerations later in the season
• They generate excitement and exposure for the sport

For Virginia, this loss, while disappointing, offers valuable insights that can be used to refine their approach as they progress through their challenging schedule.

The Evolution of College Lacrosse: Style and Strategy

How does this game reflect the changing landscape of college lacrosse? The Maryland-Virginia matchup showcased the evolving nature of the sport at the highest level:

Tempo and Transition

Both teams demonstrated the importance of controlling tempo and capitalizing on transition opportunities. Virginia’s ability to score quickly in bunches was countered by Maryland’s more patient approach in settled situations.

Defensive Adaptability

The game highlighted the need for defenses to be versatile, capable of handling both fast-break situations and prolonged possessions. Maryland’s success in forcing turnovers and limiting Virginia’s shooting efficiency underscored this point.

Goaltender Impact

The performance of Maryland’s freshman goalie, Brian Ruppel, emphasized the growing importance of elite goaltending in today’s high-scoring landscape. His 13 saves were a key factor in the Terrapins’ victory.

Fan Engagement and Atmosphere

What role did the crowd play in this thrilling contest? The largest attendance at Klöckner Stadium since 2013 created an electric atmosphere that added to the intensity of the game. This level of fan engagement is crucial for the growth and popularity of college lacrosse.

The Impact of Rivalries

The Maryland-Virginia rivalry, with its rich history and consistently high-stakes matchups, continues to be one of the sport’s most compelling narratives. Games like this not only provide entertainment for existing fans but also serve as excellent showcases to attract new followers to the sport.

Building Momentum for the Season

Early-season marquee matchups like this one help generate buzz and excitement that can carry throughout the year. For both Maryland and Virginia, the national attention garnered by this game can serve as a springboard for increased interest in their programs and college lacrosse as a whole.

Looking Ahead: The Road to May

How will this game impact both teams as they progress through the season? For Maryland, the victory provides a significant confidence boost and solidifies their position as a top contender. The Terrapins demonstrated their ability to win close games against elite competition, which bodes well for their prospects in tournament play.

Virginia, despite the loss, can take solace in their resilience and ability to compete at the highest level. The Cavaliers’ late-game comeback showcased their potential, and the lessons learned from this defeat can serve as valuable motivation and guidance as they navigate their challenging schedule.

Key Dates to Watch

As both teams move forward, what are some important games and dates to keep an eye on?

• Virginia vs. Notre Dame (March 25): A chance for the Cavaliers to bounce back against another top-ranked opponent
• Virginia vs. Duke (April 1): Another crucial ACC matchup that could have significant implications for conference standings and tournament seeding
• Maryland’s Big Ten schedule: The Terrapins will face tough conference opponents like Penn State and Ohio State, which will test their mettle
• NCAA Tournament selection (Early May): Both teams will be looking to secure high seeds for the national tournament

The Broader Impact on College Lacrosse

How does a game like this Maryland-Virginia clash influence the sport of college lacrosse as a whole? High-profile matchups between traditional powerhouses serve several important functions:

Elevating the Sport’s Profile

Games of this caliber attract attention from casual fans and sports media, helping to grow the overall audience for college lacrosse. The dramatic nature of this overtime contest provides compelling content that can be shared and discussed beyond the immediate lacrosse community.

Inspiring Young Players

Showcase games between top programs serve as inspiration for young lacrosse players, demonstrating the highest level of skill and competition. This can help drive participation and development at youth and high school levels.

Advancing Tactical Innovation

When elite teams face off, it often leads to tactical innovations as coaches and players seek to gain an edge. These strategic developments can then trickle down to other levels of the sport, driving overall advancement in how lacrosse is played.

The Role of Tradition in Modern College Lacrosse

How do traditional rivalries like Maryland-Virginia balance with the evolving landscape of college lacrosse? While the sport continues to grow and expand geographically, matchups between established powers remain crucial to the fabric of college lacrosse.

Preserving History

Games between long-standing rivals help maintain connections to the sport’s roots, particularly in hotbed regions like the Mid-Atlantic. This sense of history and tradition adds depth and meaning to contemporary matchups.

Adapting to Change

At the same time, traditional powers like Maryland and Virginia must continue to evolve to stay competitive in an increasingly diverse lacrosse landscape. This game demonstrated how both programs have adapted their styles and strategies while maintaining their elite status.

Player Development and NFL Prospects

How do high-profile college lacrosse games impact players’ professional prospects? While professional opportunities in lacrosse are more limited compared to some other collegiate sports, standout performances in big games can significantly boost a player’s profile:

Scouting Opportunities

Major matchups like Maryland-Virginia attract attention from professional scouts, giving players a chance to showcase their skills on a big stage. Strong performances can improve draft stock for both Major League Lacrosse (MLL) and Premier Lacrosse League (PLL).

Building Mental Toughness

The pressure and intensity of games like this help develop mental fortitude in players, a crucial attribute for success at the professional level. Virginia’s late-game comeback and Maryland’s overtime performance both demonstrate the kind of resilience pro teams value.

Versatility and Adaptability

Players who can excel in different game situations and adapt to various strategies, as seen in this matchup, are particularly attractive to professional teams. The ability to contribute in both transition and settled situations is highly valued.

The Future of College Lacrosse: Trends and Predictions

What does this early-season classic tell us about the direction of college lacrosse? Several trends and potential developments emerge:

Increasing Parity

While traditional powers like Maryland and Virginia remain strong, the competitiveness of this game suggests that the gap between top teams may be narrowing. This could lead to more unpredictable and exciting tournaments in the future.

Emphasis on Athleticism

The pace and intensity of the game highlight the growing importance of overall athleticism in lacrosse. Players who can excel in both transition and settled situations are becoming increasingly valuable.

Tactical Flexibility

Both teams demonstrated the ability to adjust their strategies mid-game, suggesting that tactical flexibility will be crucial for success at the highest levels of college lacrosse.

Goaltender Impact

The standout performance of Maryland’s freshman goalie, Brian Ruppel, may signal a trend towards younger players making significant impacts in crucial positions.

As the college lacrosse season progresses, games like this Maryland-Virginia clash will continue to shape the narrative and influence the sport’s development. Both teams have shown they have the potential to make deep runs in the NCAA tournament, and their performances will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and fellow competitors alike.

Five takeaways from UVA lacrosse’s overtime loss to #4 Maryland

In an overtime thriller, the top-ranked Virginia Cavaliers men’s lacrosse team took its first loss of the season, falling to the Maryland Terrapins 14-13. In a game of runs, the ‘Hoos were down 3-0 early in the first quarter before storming back to take a 6-3 lead. Maryland responded in turn, notching a goal before the end of the half and then outscoring UVA 6-3 in the third stanza to take a 10-9 lead into the fourth quarter.

Two more Terp scores to start the final quarter left Lars Tiffany’s team with a three-goal deficit. But, reminiscent of the 2019 Virginia team, the Wahoos scored three goals in the last 3:41 of play including two in the span of 38 seconds within the last two minutes to send the game to overtime. Despite a number of really good shots in transition and a few massive stops from the defense, Maryland eventually wore UVA down with Daniel Kelly’s step-down shot getting past Matt Nunes to seize victory.

With the loss, we have five takeaways for the Cavaliers moving forward.

While tough, this loss doesn’t define this team

At the end of the day, Virginia losing this game absolutely stings. After last season’s pair of blowout losses, with the biggest crowd at Klockner Stadium since 2013, and as the ‘Hoos seemed like the better team coming in and for much of the game, falling in such dramatic fashion is tough.

But, while there is noticeable room for improvement and areas where UVA struggled, this result doesn’t have massive implications for the overall assessment of this team. Contrary to the midseason loss to the Terps last spring, this was a result that points to Virginia as a potentially elite team that needs to be better in a few areas to beat the best in the country. Games against current #2 Notre Dame and #3 Duke over the next two weekends provide a great opportunity to bounce back and pick up quality resume wins.

Virginia doesn’t quite toe the line between necessary aggression and over-aggression

One of the most fun parts of watching this program is to see how well Virginia can dominate games in the middle of the field and convert in transition, jumping out to big leads and knocking opponents out by stringing together goals in quick succession. Unfortunately, against the quality of opponent and style of Maryland, some of that aggression got turned on its head.

Five early turnovers and 16 total were evidence of the offense perhaps trying to make a few too many tough passes. More prominently, ill-advised shots early in possessions, especially in the third quarter, often left UVA’s defense on the field for far too long and allowed Maryland to have enough settled, long offensive possessions to find the back of the net and consequently prevent Virginia’s high-powered attack from finding a rhythm.

Even after Lars Tiffany emphasized slowing the game down and looking to have more settled play on offense five minutes into the third quarter, there were still a few too many forces. A no-no-no-no-YES! Evan Zinn goal in transition shortly thereafter did prove why running can be so valuable. Yet a poor Petey LaSalla shot and a couple ones that were taken too quickly on the next two possessions meant Maryland pulled ahead 9-8 with 5:19 left in the third.

Additionally, Zinn’s 15-yard step down shot in overtime was maybe not the best decisions considering the ‘Hoos had a four on three with Connor Shellenberger open and either in-line for a time and room shot from far closer or able to hit two of the nation’s best finishers in Xander Dickson and Payton Cormier down low.

Of course, it’s easy to nit-pick little things about a loss and, had Thomas McConvey or Zinn finished the two looks that came after that play, this might not even be a talking point. But there is also a reality that UVA probably needs to be a bit more disciplined against teams as good and well-coached as Maryland. This is nothing drastic and isn’t meant to be overly critical, but being a bit more reserved will probably yield some better results for Virginia against the top tier of college lacrosse this spring.

UVA’s shooters didn’t hit the net enough

It’s perhaps quite obvious given the one-goal loss, but the Cavaliers’ shooters simply didn’t hit the back of the net enough against Maryland. Freshman goalie Brian Ruppel made 13 saves (51.9%) while two of Virginia’s most dangerous offensive threats Connor Shellenberger and Xander Dickson each shot just 1-7 on the day. Some of those were just Ruppel making really good saves, others weren’t the best quality of shots.

Beyond just those two, UVA as a team had its worst shooting performance of the season, canning 13 of their 46 shots (28.3%). Again, Ruppel was truly special in this game. But McConvey (4-8) and fellow Canadian Payton Cormier — who played heroically, scoring three goals on five shots in this game despite being on crutches last week — were the only Wahoos to shoot at or better than 50%. Particularly early in the game, the shot selection left something to be desired by settling for a number of low angle looks.

Again, UVA still only lost this game in overtime. Each player above made critical, big plays throughout the game and all ought to hold their heads high. Yet there does remain some room to get better and to emphasize taking better shots against good goalies, such as Notre Dame’s Liam Entenmann next week.

Petey LaSalla neutralizes Luke Wierman

On the undoubtedly positive side of things, Petey LaSalla was incredibly good at the faceoff dot against Luke Wierman. After Wierman absolutely dominated him in the two games in 2022, LaSalla went toe to toe with the best faceoff man in the country over the past two seasons, finishing 15-30 with just as many wins as his Terrapin opponent. Even if he didn’t score in the game (which feels weird to write about a faceoff guy, but that’s just how good he is offensively), LaSalla was so effective for all four quarters and forced Maryland into an even-possession game, something they haven’t truly had to play in years.

While LaSalla is in the second tier amongst D-1 FOGOs in true winning percentage, he made his presence felt in this game and reiterated just how good he is at the faceoff dot, even separate from what he brings to the Virginia offense.

Thomas McConvey clutches up on offense

Despite some struggles from a few of his teammates, Thomas McConvey played a lights out game of lacrosse with four goals and an assist. With a diving goal at the end of the third quarter to pull the ‘Hoos back within one, he also scored the game-tying goal with 78 seconds left to send the game to overtime. Had he sunk his shot in overtime to win the game, this would’ve been a legendary performance from the fifth year transfer.

Still, though, the way McConvey was able to win his individual matchup consistently in this game is a sign of how this year’s offense is a step ahead of last season’s. The plethora of players who warrant being guarded by a pole means that somebody will always be able to dodge the short stick or attack the weakest pole. McConvey is a major part of that and his success against Maryland points to both how good he is individually and how complete this Virginia offense is.

Virginia Tech Athletics Lacrosse History vs University of Maryland

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Lacrosse History vs University of Maryland from Apr 26, 2003 -
Apr 24, 2014

Last Matchup

Apr. 24,2014

9

at

14

Full Box Score

Losses

13

Streak

L13

Longest Win Streak

0 Games

N/A

Longest Losing Streak

13
Games

4/26/2003 – 4/24/2014

Home Record

0-5

Away Record

0-8

Conference Record

0-10

First Matchup

L 1-18

4/26/2003

Last 10 Matchups

0-10

4/22/2007-4/24/2014

Largest Margin of Victory

N/A

N/A

Smallest Margin of Victory

N/A

N/A

Total Goals

95

Average Goals

7. 31

Win

Loss

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