Due to recent offensive struggles, the No. 18 Massachusetts men’s lacrosse team has relied on its defense to keep games close.
The unit has excelled as of late, keeping the Minutemen (6-3, 1-1 Colonial Athletic Association) in striking distance in competitive games. UMass has held opponents to under 10 goals in seven of its nine games.
“Our defense has kept us in every game we’ve played so far,” said UMass coach Greg Cannella. “You hope they can continue to do that. It’s a tough burden to put on those guys, but we have confidence in their ability to continue to do that.”
When the offense is struggling to score, the defense steps up, thanks in large part to the leadership and experience in the zone. Senior defensemen Casey Rahn, Stephen Zorkers, Brett Newgaard and Travis Tripucka give the unit a sense of urgency and know every possession counts in close games.
Juniors Tom Celentani and Greg Anderson, along with sophomore Jake Smith, further complement UMass’ defense. The trio has played a large role in limiting the opposition’s number of quality scoring opportunities.
The Maroon and White have allowed an average of eight goals per game over their last four games. Cannella believes that success comes from the amount of pride the defense takes in their performance.
“If you ask those guys, they would be the first ones to say, ‘Hey, we expect that out of ourselves. That’s what kind of performance that we need every day and that’s why we’re working so hard to get there,’” said Cannella. “…I don’t think any of this [success] is a coincidence.”
Junior goalie Tim McCormack has been the anchor of the defense all year with his stout goalkeeping. The junior has averaged 11.75 saves per game in his last four outings, including a season-high 17 against Harvard on March 29.
“I think that’s what every team strives for,” said Cannella about McCormack’s high level of play. “That’s [going to] make your defense feel a little more comfortable. Timmy’s been very solid and an excellent leader as well. Not only [is he succeeding at] saving the ball, but in the clearing game and in the riding game.”
Coach Kevin Burns deserves a great deal of credit for the defense’s strong play, as he helps prepare the unit for the upcoming game by giving his players plenty of repetitions during practice and before games.
Saturday’s win over Saint Joseph’s showcased perfect efficiency in the clearing game as the Minutemen went 18-for-18 in clearing attempts. That marked the second time they’ve been perfect in that category, the first coming February 26 against Ohio State.
“We do set that goal, to be 100 percent in the clear game. It’s good to be able to accomplish that goal every once in a while,” said Cannella. “It…prevents second chances for the opposing offensive team….That’s really critical, I think, to any team’s success.”
The defense will need to continue to perform for the Minutemen as they prepare for their final stretch run of the regular season and look towards the CAA playoffs.
“This is what it’s all about…” said Cannella. “This is why you play, this is why you participate in collegiate athletics, for the opportunities to play against not only great universities but great teams and hopefully be in a position to play at a high level.”
Cannella hopes his defense can continue its strong play.
“Again, you can’t ask those guys to do it every day, but they’ve been very consistent, which is what you look for…” said Cannella.
Stephen Sellner can be reached at [email protected].
