The University of Utah lacrosse team (2-3) faced Marquette, coming off a dominant victory at the Rice Eccles Stadium against Vermont. The Utes were able to defeat Marquette on their territory this Saturday, winning 9-8. It was a close game, with a high-scoring first half before a defensive second half.
First Half
In the cold Wisconsin weather, the Utes got the game started first, with a goal from Carson Moyer. Nikko DiPonio added on soon after, making it a quick 2-0 Utes. The rest of the first quarter was cold, going scoreless until the 2:27 mark when Jordan Hyde found the back of the net to give Utah a 3-1 lead.
In the second quarter, Marquette scored within the first minute. However, MJ McMahon was able to score just a couple minutes later thanks to a great pass by Tyler Bradbury. Bradbury got another assist just two minutes later, as Will Overly scored this time. Utah’s defense was ambushed right after, with back-to-back goals from Marquette. Ryan Stines responded quickly, scoring back-to-back goals. Marquette responded with two more of their own, and Utah went into halftime with a narrow 7-6 lead.
Second Half
Although the first half was an offensive game, the second would be much different. After 10 minutes without a goal, Cody Hart scored, assisted by Bradbury. After another Marquette goal, Utah led 8-7 going into the fourth quarter.
The fourth quarter was another defensive masterclass from both teams. Marquette scored early into the quarter to tie the game, but that was their last goal of the game. Seven minutes later, McMahon scored an unassisted goal to give Utah the 9-8 lead. With seven minutes remaining in the game, Utah’s defense was able to hold Marquette off to grab their second win of the season, 9-8.
It was a tough defensive battle for the Utes, earning a well-fought win on the road against a well-rounded squad. This win marks Utah head coach Andrew McMinn’s 100th career win and 24th with Utah. McMinn became Utah’s all-time wins leader last season.
The Utes now have a week of rest before their next away game, where they will face Bellarmine. The game will take place at 11:00 a.m. MST on March 16 in Louisville, Kentucky.
