In the first of seven road games for the Ohio lacrosse team, Notre Dame defeated the Bobcats, 18-6. Ohio got down early but refused to give up without a fight.
Ohio was down by four goals in the first half before midfielder Katie Smith scored the Bobcats' first point of the game. The goal proved to be a turning point for the Ohio offense, Smith said, as the 'Cats found some momentum to work with.
We knew the game was in our hands
she said.
Coach Allison Valentino said she was proud of her team's effort, saying her players have improved in many of the areas that had previously been problematic for them.
The Bobcats also were able to keep up their intensity throughout the entire game. Ohio decreased its number of turnovers to 16 and also had long offensive possessions. The Ohio players had great individual efforts as well, Valentino said.
Still, Ohio could not stop Notre Dame's fast break.
We battled the entire 60 minutes Valentino said. They're fast and they can score quickly.
Despite the final score, the Bobcats consider the game a success.
This was one of the best games we've seen our team play
goalkeeper Jen Heup said. Nobody gave up. In regard to their game Saturday against No. 1 Northwestern, Valentino said that the Bobcats are going to continue to work hard and learn from their losses.
We're a young group
and we're getting better each day
she said.
Heup said the team is anxious for the approaching game.
Knowing Northwestern
we're a little bit more intimidated than we were against Notre Dame
Heup said, but I think we will respond well to the pressure.
Smith said their newfound confidence will carry on to the Northwestern game, and they will continue to improve.
I want to come off the field with no regrets
she said of the upcoming game. She said if her teammates follow suit, they will be successful against Northwestern.
e Bobcats play the Wildcats on Saturday at 1 p.m. CST (2 p.m. EST) at the Leonard B. Thomas Sports Complex in Evanston, Ill.
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