The women’s lacrosse team played Concordia-St. Paul last Friday. The Cardinals fell 18-3, but the team has not lost hope, given this was the first conference game.
Mikaila Stone, the team goalkeeper, had a standout game for SVSU, making a career-high 15 saves. Stone commented on her approach in the game.
“Before every game, I experience a blend of fear and excitement but I strive to maintain a level-headed approach,” Stone said. “My focus is on having a ‘next ball’ mentality right from warm-ups.”
Gabby Parker, team attackman scored her 10th goal of the season. Leading the Cardinals with four shots on goal in the game and tallying five ground balls, Parker took advantage of missed opportunities. However, the scoring started too late compared to Concordia’s high-powered offense, who dominated from the first 45 seconds.
The Cardinals planned effectively for Concrodia’s game strategy.
‘Our coach played a crucial role in our preparation for Concordia by designing practices tailored to counter their playing style,” Stone said. ”Coach Cait emphasized their preferences for a two-man game and their tendency to exploit even the smallest openings.”
The Cardinals countered late in the game as the Golden Bears dominated the score sheet with 16-0 by the third quarter. This counterattack was led by Sarah Veale, who scored her sixth goal of her career and Lainey Lasky who contributed an assist and three draw controls.
Stone had eight ground balls as well; her strategy is accompanied by her ability to visualize the offense.
“My decision-making largely depends on the context of the shot,” Stone said. “This decision also hinges on the shooter’s history and confidence.”
The Cardinals had three shots on target through the first half but were stopped by Katie Colleran, Concordia’s goalkeeper. Compared to Stone, Colleran made six saves while Stone made 15.
Stone practiced effective communication from the net.
“Effective communication is crucial, especially since I can see things from a different angle than my teammates,” Stone said. “I emphasize a collective mentality; defense is a unit that must work in harmony.”
Learning from the mistakes made in the game was the team’s priority.
“While there were mistakes made today, I believe they are easily correctable, such as running through ground balls, protecting our sticks, and exercising patience with possession,” Stone said. “We are prepared and excited for the opportunities ahead.”
These losses present a learning opportunity for the team, as their first season is all about establishing chemistry.
“Experiencing a significant loss can feel like a gut punch, stirring up a range of emotions and doubts,” Stone said. ”However, from our toughest losses, we’ve gained … team chemistry”.
