How did Maryland men’s lacrosse team defeat top-ranked Virginia in overtime. What were the key moments and players that led to the Terrapins’ victory. Which factors contributed to the Cavaliers’ first loss of the season.
Epic Showdown: No. 4 Maryland Edges No. 1 Virginia 14-13 in OT
In a nail-biting contest that lived up to its billing, the fourth-ranked Maryland Terrapins men’s lacrosse team toppled the previously undefeated and top-ranked Virginia Cavaliers 14-13 in overtime. The match, which took place at Klรถckner Stadium in Charlottesville, Virginia, showcased the immense talent and competitive spirit of both powerhouse programs.
The game was characterized by dramatic shifts in momentum, with each team mounting impressive comebacks throughout the contest. Maryland struck first, racing to an early 3-0 lead. However, Virginia responded with a vengeance, scoring six unanswered goals to take a 6-3 advantage. The Terrapins then regrouped, outscoring the Cavaliers 6-3 in the third quarter to regain the lead at 10-9.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, Maryland appeared to be in control, extending their lead to 12-9. But the Cavaliers, channeling the spirit of their 2019 championship team, mounted a furious comeback in the final minutes. Virginia netted three goals in the last 3:41 of regulation, including two within a span of 38 seconds, to force overtime.
In the extra period, both teams had opportunities to clinch victory. However, it was Maryland’s Daniel Kelly who ultimately sealed the win with a well-executed step-down shot that found its way past Virginia goalkeeper Matt Nunes.
Analyzing Virginia’s First Setback: Five Key Takeaways
While the loss undoubtedly stings for the Cavaliers, it’s essential to put this result into perspective. Here are five crucial takeaways from the match that shed light on Virginia’s performance and future outlook:
1. A Tough Loss, But Not a Season-Defining Moment
Despite the disappointment of falling in overtime, this defeat does not significantly alter the overall assessment of Virginia’s potential. Unlike last season’s mid-year blowout losses to Maryland, this closely contested battle suggests that the Cavaliers remain an elite team capable of competing with the nation’s best.
The upcoming games against current No. 2 Notre Dame and No. 3 Duke present excellent opportunities for Virginia to bounce back and secure quality wins for their resume.
2. Balancing Aggression and Discipline
One of Virginia’s hallmarks is their ability to dominate in transition and quickly build leads through rapid-fire scoring. However, against a formidable opponent like Maryland, this aggressive style occasionally backfired.
The Cavaliers committed 16 turnovers, including five early in the game, often resulting from overly ambitious passes. Additionally, some ill-advised shots early in possessions, particularly in the third quarter, allowed Maryland to control the tempo and find their offensive rhythm.
While Virginia’s high-octane approach can be extremely effective, finding the right balance between necessary aggression and disciplined play will be crucial when facing top-tier competition.
3. Shooting Efficiency: Room for Improvement
In a one-goal loss, every shot counts, and Virginia’s shooting efficiency left something to be desired. The Cavaliers recorded their worst shooting performance of the season, converting just 13 of their 46 attempts (28.3%).
Notable struggles came from two of Virginia’s most dangerous offensive threats, Connor Shellenberger and Xander Dickson, who each shot just 1-7 on the day. While some credit must be given to Maryland’s freshman goalkeeper Brian Ruppel, who made 13 saves (51.9% save percentage), the Cavaliers will need to improve their shot selection and accuracy moving forward.
Maryland’s Resilience and Clutch Performance
The Terrapins demonstrated remarkable poise and determination throughout the contest, particularly in the face of Virginia’s late-game surge. Several factors contributed to Maryland’s hard-fought victory:
1. Goaltending Brilliance
Freshman goalkeeper Brian Ruppel delivered a standout performance, making 13 crucial saves and frustrating Virginia’s shooters throughout the game. His 51.9% save percentage played a significant role in keeping Maryland competitive and ultimately securing the win.
2. Offensive Balance and Timely Scoring
Maryland’s offense showed versatility and resilience, with multiple players stepping up at critical moments. The Terrapins’ ability to respond to Virginia’s runs and maintain composure in the face of adversity was evident throughout the match.
3. Overtime Execution
In the high-pressure overtime period, Maryland maintained their focus and capitalized on their opportunity. Daniel Kelly’s game-winning goal showcased the team’s ability to execute in clutch situations.
Implications for the NCAA Lacrosse Landscape
This thrilling encounter between two lacrosse powerhouses has significant implications for the national rankings and the broader NCAA lacrosse landscape. Here’s how this result might impact both programs and the sport as a whole:
- Rankings Shuffle: Virginia’s loss will likely result in a reshuffling of the top rankings, with Maryland potentially moving up and the Cavaliers dropping a few spots.
- Tournament Seeding: While it’s still early in the season, this head-to-head result could play a role in determining seeding for the NCAA tournament.
- Confidence Boost for Maryland: The Terrapins’ victory over the top-ranked team will provide a significant morale boost and validate their status as national title contenders.
- Learning Experience for Virginia: The Cavaliers can use this loss as a valuable learning experience, identifying areas for improvement as they prepare for upcoming challenges in the competitive ACC.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Both Virginia and Maryland face demanding schedules in the coming weeks, with opportunities to further prove themselves against top-tier competition. Here’s what lies ahead for both programs:
Virginia’s Upcoming Tests
The Cavaliers have no time to dwell on this loss, as they face a gauntlet of highly-ranked opponents in the near future:
- No. 2 Notre Dame: A chance for Virginia to immediately bounce back and reassert their dominance against another top-ranked team.
- No. 3 Duke: The battle against their ACC rival will be crucial for conference standings and national rankings.
- Other ACC Matchups: The competitive ACC schedule will provide further opportunities for Virginia to solidify their position among the nation’s elite.
Maryland’s Path Forward
The Terrapins will look to build on this signature win as they navigate their Big Ten schedule:
- Maintaining Momentum: Maryland must guard against a letdown after this emotional victory, staying focused on their upcoming opponents.
- Big Ten Challenges: The conference schedule will present its own set of formidable opponents, including traditional powers like Johns Hopkins and Penn State.
- Continued Development: With young stars like freshman goalie Brian Ruppel, Maryland will aim to continue improving as the season progresses.
The Broader Impact on College Lacrosse
This high-profile matchup between Virginia and Maryland serves as a showcase for the excitement and quality of play in college lacrosse. The implications of this game extend beyond just these two programs:
Parity in the Sport
The close nature of this contest between the top-ranked teams demonstrates the increasing parity in college lacrosse. No team is invincible, and on any given day, the elite programs can challenge one another.
Spotlight on Emerging Talent
The performances of players like Maryland’s freshman goalie Brian Ruppel highlight the impact that young talent can have at the highest level of college lacrosse.
Tactical Evolution
The strategic battle between Virginia’s aggressive, transition-heavy style and Maryland’s more measured approach showcases the diverse tactical landscape in modern college lacrosse.
Keys to Success: Lessons from the Virginia-Maryland Showdown
Both teams displayed strengths and areas for improvement in this closely contested match. Here are some key takeaways that could be valuable for any lacrosse program aiming for success at the highest level:
1. Adaptability is Crucial
Virginia’s ability to adjust their game plan and mount a comeback, as well as Maryland’s resilience in the face of the Cavaliers’ late surge, demonstrate the importance of in-game adaptability.
2. Goaltending Can Be a Game-Changer
Brian Ruppel’s outstanding performance for Maryland underscores the impact that a hot goalie can have on the outcome of a game, especially in high-pressure situations.
3. Balance Aggression with Discipline
Virginia’s occasional over-aggression highlights the need for teams to find the right balance between pushing the pace and maintaining control of possession.
4. Mental Toughness in Overtime
Maryland’s ability to regroup after Virginia’s late comeback and execute in overtime speaks to the importance of mental fortitude in high-stakes situations.
5. Shooting Efficiency Matters
Virginia’s struggles with shooting efficiency serve as a reminder that quality shot selection and accuracy can often be the difference in closely contested games.
As the college lacrosse season progresses, both Virginia and Maryland will look to apply the lessons learned from this thrilling encounter. For Virginia, the focus will be on refining their aggressive style while improving shooting efficiency. Maryland, buoyed by this significant victory, will aim to build on their success and continue their upward trajectory.
Ultimately, this early-season clash between two lacrosse powerhouses serves as a tantalizing preview of the excitement and high-level play that fans can expect as the race for the national championship unfolds. With both teams showcasing their strengths and revealing areas for growth, the stage is set for a compelling and competitive season in NCAA Division I men’s lacrosse.
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./cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/2872873/GYI0064935608.jpg)
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.
Maryland vs Virginia Lacrosse Quarterfinals Preview
Is it Memorial Day yet? This weekend’s NCAA Quarterfinal matchups have that feeling. This afternoon, Maryland will take on Virginia in the final college lacrosse game of the weekend.
The two teams have combined to win three of the last four NCAA National Championships. They met last year in an epic NCAA National Championship bout. Virginia won, but Maryland held with the Cavaliers down to the last second in one of the best lacrosse games all season.
Virginia holds off in the final moments 👏
📺 @espn #NCAAMLAX x @UVAMensLax pic.twitter.com/VIKSHghQZy
— NCAA Lacrosse (@NCAALAX) May 31, 2021
In March, the two teams met at Audi Field in Washington D.C. The Terps dispatched the Cavaliers 23-12.
A step on the journey. More work to come. #BeTheBest pic.twitter.com/qwrFYKMGKP
— Maryland Lacrosse (@TerpsMLax) March 22, 2022
Maryland is on a historic pace this season. They’re undefeated and winning games by an average of 9.2 goals a game. Many see the Terps winning the NCAA National Championship as inevitable.
Here are three keys to determining if the Avengers, AKA the Cavaliers, can make it a game and pull off the upset.
The Faceoff
Luke Wierman set the tone from the first face-off back in March. Wierman won the clamp and found Keegan Khan 8-seconds into the game to put the Terps on top.
DON’T BLINK.
TERPS UP EIGHT SECONDS IN. #BeTheBest pic.twitter.com/h5ivaLnovK— Maryland Lacrosse (@TerpsMLax) March 19, 2022
Wierman is second in the country, winning 66.3% of his faceoffs. The Terp FOGO went 24-36 at the X in March and enabled Maryland to play make-it-take-it all day against UVA.
The Cav’s Petey LaSalla had no answers for Wierman. He was 5-18 on the day, leaving UVA to turn to sophomore Gable Braun, who didn’t fare much better. LaSalla battled a shoulder injury in late March/early April that could’ve contributed to his and UVA’s troubles at the X.
When LaSalla is right, he gives UVA extra possessions and is an offensive threat. His numbers have improved since mid-April. Expect a more even contest on Sunday.
Petey Lasalle proving why he’s the one of the biggest offensive threats the faceoff x has ever seen pic.twitter.com/kPReXYPDII
— Coach King (@coachking_28) May 17, 2022
Maryland’s Offense vs. Virginia’s Defense
Maryland’s offense has been nearly unstoppable this year. The top-ranked Terps have thrived in Bobby Benson’s high-powered offense and are led by Logan Wisnauskas (52G/38A). Maryland leads the nation averaging 18.53 goals a game and has seven players with 30 or more points on the season.
John Tillman used the Transfer Portal to reinforce the Terp offense in the offseason. Adding Keegan Khan (Villanova), Jonathan Donville (Cornell), and Owen Murphy (Johns Hopkins). Maryland plays an unselfish brand of lacrosse.
The Terps thrive on ball movement and finding the one-more.
Multiple times during the March matchup, the Terps were able to take advantage of the Cavaliers being out of position or late on the defensive rotation.
UVA’s defense has been average this season, ranked 44th in adjusted efficiency.
On the Quintessential Lacrosse Podcast earlier this week, Quint Kessenich and Syracuse Defensive Coordinator, Dave Pietramala, suggested UVA change up their defensive scheme. Implementing a zone or shut-off, to slow down the Terps and force them to adjust.
The Cavaliers will also need improvement between the pipes. Freshman goalie Matt Nunes had one of his worst performances of the season, saving only 38.5% of the shots he faced against the Terps.
Virginia’s Offense vs. Maryland’s Defense
Virginia has the 5th best offense in Division 1 lacrosse led by Mr. May, Connor Shellenberger (32G, 44A).
🔥 Connor Shellenberger 🔥 in the month of May:
5️⃣ NCAA Tournament games
1️⃣8️⃣ goals
1️⃣4️⃣ assists#GoHoos⚔️ pic.twitter.com/VRbyyWXCrI— Virginia Men’s Lacrosse (@UVAMensLax) May 18, 2022
The Terps held UVA to 12 goals in March and one of their lowest efficiencies of the season. Terp’s defensemen Brett Makar and Ajax Zappitello limited Shellenberger and Matt Moore from finding success on one-on-one dodges.
Virginia had the most success in using their pick game and moving the ball quickly. The video below does a good job of showing this action. Payton Cormier comes off a pick from Jeff Conner to find an open Xander Dickson on the crease for the goal.
UVA will need a big game from Shellenberger and Matt Moore.
