The defining moment in the history of the UNC men’s lacrosse program came last Memorial Day, when head coach Joe Breschi’s Tar Heels knocked off Maryland to win their first ever national championship.

The 10th-ranked Terrapins (5-2) had to wait almost a year for their revenge, but they found it Saturday afternoon at Fetzer Field–as they cruised to a 15-7 win over No. 14 UNC.

Attacker Dylan Maltz scored three goals on three shots to lead the Maryland offense, which opened up a 9-3 halftime lead and never once had to play from behind.

The Tar Heels (5-4) received a pair of first-half goals from midfielder Timmy Kelly, but saw their usual leaders held in check by the Terrapins.

UNC’s high-powered attacking trio of Luke Goldstock, Chris Cloutier and Andy Matthews were limited to just one goal apiece–while goalie Brian Balkam had to be pulled mid-game after allowing a mind-boggling 11 goals on only 12 shots faced.

It was certainly not the performance the Tar Heels had in mind coming into this weekend, as they’ve now lost three out of their last four games–all of which have been played at home against teams now ranked among the top 12 in the country.

Once the No.1 team in the nation, UNC now finds itself with no time for a break.

ACC play gets underway against Duke next Sunday, which means all four teams left on the Tar Heels’ schedule will be among the best in the country.

For Breschi and his team, it’s now or never–assuming UNC wants any shot at defending its crown from a year ago.

Game Notes:

  • The Tar Heels actually had more shots than the Terrapins, winning that category by a margin of 32-27.
  • Maryland had six different players score at least two goals.
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