Northern Michigan University Lacrosse opened their GLIAC season on the road at Concordia University St. Paul (CSP), losing 18-15.
The Wildcats trailed 11-2 after the first half but rallied to score 13 second half goals. The clock ran out on the Cinderella comeback and the ’Cats started the long journey back to Marquette.
The Wildcats were led by sophomore defender Graison Ringlever and freshman attack/midfielder Emily Dvorak, who each put in five goals. Freshman midfielder Bianca Kinder added two goals, while freshman attack/midfielder Tess Kostelec, freshman midfielder/attack Ellie Bahr and freshman attack Angelica Bogden each picked up a goal. All of the goal scorers also added an assist.
In goal, senior Brianna Bangle posted eight saves. Freshman goalkeeper Emily Karbaum replaced Bangle in goal to start the second half and stopped seven shots while letting seven in.
CSP scored three goals to start the match before Dvorak scored her first goal. Bahr scored on a free position shot but CSP ended the half on a 6-0 run to take an 11-2 halftime lead.
NMU closed the gap in the second half but was unable to dig themselves out of their first half deficit.
CSP nearly doubled Northern’s shots, 43-25. NMU also turned the ball over more, giving away 22 turnovers to CSP’s 17.
NMU is home at 7 p.m. on Friday to take on Grand Valley State University.
The Wildcats have a 1-4 record, with three losses coming by less than three goals.