By Sam Draut–

Lacrosse coach Kellie Young emphasized to her team throughout the year the importance of playing a complete 60 minutes. In the first round of the NCAA tournament against 10th-ranked Northwestern, the Cardinals fell behind 3-0 in the opening four minutes and couldn’t keep up with the efficient Wildcat attack due to a strong performance from Northwestern goalkeeper Mallory Weisse. Northwestern defeated Louisville 15-5.

Hannah Koloski and Cortnee Daley scored goals to close the initial 3-0 deficit to one, but Northwestern finished the first half on a 6-0 run to take control through the first 30 minutes. Daley and Kaylin Morissette each scored a goal to begin the second half to cut the Northwestern lead to five, but Weisse blocked any hope for a comeback. The freshman from New Jersey had 12 saves and held off countless of attacks by Louisville. The Cardinals were one of five on free-position attacks and ended with 15 shots on goal.

After beginning the season 12-1, Louisville lost its final five games, but reached its third consecutive NCAA tournament.

Photos by Sam Draut / The Louisville Cardinal