On a day that was supposed to showcase UVA and our lacrosse program on a national stage and over 10,000 fans flocked to Scott Stadium, the number six ranked Cavalier Mens Lacrosse team hit another road block in their season today with their second straight loss, falling to the 10th ranked Maryland Terrapins 12-7 in their ACC opener. This is the first time UVA has lost back-to-back regular season games since 2004.

UVA played without 4th-year All-American midfielder, Shamel Bratton, who is suspended for violation of team rules. The Cavaliers however, still played well in the first half and headed into halftime with a 4-2 lead, with goals coming from Steele Stanwick, Rhamel Bratton, John Haldy and Colin Briggs.  It was in the second half, that Maryland came out firing on all cylinders and outscored UVA 8-2 in the last two quarters. Maryland had really outstanding play from freshman goalie Niko Amato and Joe Cummings who had a career day with 4 goals.

It is worth mentioning that the loss was more of a Maryland performance rather than a lack of effort on behalf of UVA. UVA won the ground ball battle 37-31 and attempted more shots than Maryland 34-27, but unfortunately shots just were not getting in the back of the net. Chris Bocklet and Rhamel Bratton finished with 2 goals each and along with the rest of the team, look to bounce back against UNC on next Saturday at noon at Klockner Stadium.