Maryland women’s lacrosse defeats Johns Hopkins, 17-4

Maryland women’s lacrosse defeated No. 16 Johns Hopkins 17-4 in the Big Ten opener to improve to 7-0. Although goalkeeper Megan Taylor missed the game with an injury, the Terps didn’t miss a beat.

Maryland’s offense was balanced, as six players earned a multi-goal game. Caroline Steele lead all goal-scorers with four, and Megan Whittle, Jen Giles, Caroline Wannen, Brindi Griffin and Zoe Stukenberg each scored two. Taylor Hensh, Kacie Longo, and Bairrie Reilly finished with a goal of their own as well.

In place of Taylor, Emily Kift started and shined, only allowing four goals on 14 shots. Johns Hopkins was scoreless on free position shots, and only scored one goal in the second half. Like Taylor normally does, Kift made crucial saves at big moments that kept momentum on Maryland’s side. On the other side, Maryland didn’t have any issues with Johns Hopkins goalkeeper Caroline Federico, who allowed 17 goals on 25 attempts.

Throughout the game, Maryland had full control. The Terps conducted a 4-0 run in the first half, entering the intermission up 7-3. In the second half, Maryland had a 7-0 run over a 10-minute stretch. Additionally, the Terps held the Blue Jays scoreless for the first 20 minutes of the second half.

Johns Hopkins tried to play a physical game, but it didn’t work. The Blue Jays finished with 41 fouls, more than doubling Maryland’s 20 on the day. The Terps took advantage, converting five free position goals on 12 attempts. Maryland also won the draw control battle 14-9 and the turnover battle 13-11.

The Terps next play No. 12 Penn at home Wednesday night.

Three Things to Know

1. Maryland stepped up without Megan Taylor. Taylor’s absence didn’t seem to affect Maryland despite the goalkeepers career season. With Kift leading the way in goal, the Terps clamped down on Johns Hopkins, making it difficult for them to even attempt a shot on goal. Johns Hopkins scored their lowest point total of the season.
2. Johns Hopkins’ defense fell apart. Coming into the game, the Blue Jays had allowed 61 goals in eight games. However, they couldn’t figure out Maryland’s offense. The 17 goals are the most scored against Johns Hopkins this season by seven goals.
3. Maryland played perhaps game of the year. This was Maryland’s best performance of the season, topping last weak’s win over Syracuse. As the Terps continue to improve, it is scary to think about how good this team can get.