East Michigan News

The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) lacrosse team faced a challenging match on April 2, resulting in a 17-5 defeat against the No. 16 Michigan Wolverines. Originally scheduled at the U-M Lacrosse Stadium in Ann Arbor, the encounter took place at the EMU Indoor Practice Facility in Ypsilanti due to severe weather, despite the Wolverines being designated as the home team.

Mackenzie Blackwell once again led EMU with a hat trick, bringing her career total to 26. "Mackenzie Blackwell tallied three goals for her ninth hat trick in 11 games played this year," the team noted, highlighting her consistent performance. Blackwell now boasts 125 career goals, with two more added on the woman-up advantage, "easily the most in program history."

The Wolverines took command early, scoring four quick goals. Blackwell ended EMU's scoring drought with a goal assisted by Tracy Grollman, reducing the deficit to 4-1. Michigan, however, further extended their lead to 6-1 by the end of the first quarter. Although EMU showed resilience, with Blackwell netting two more goals in the second quarter, the Wolverines maintained a tenacious offense.

After halftime, little changed as both teams managed only one goal each in the third quarter. Kendall Nagle scored for EMU but was soon answered by a Wolverine goal, maintaining Michigan's lead at 11-4. In the final quarter, Michigan's offense surged with five consecutive goals, bringing the score to 16-4. EMU's Stella Burke, scoring her third consecutive game goal, brought EMU’s total to five before Michigan sealed the game at 17-5 with a last-minute goal.

Stella Burke's goal added to her building momentum, having scored previously against Youngstown State and Central Michigan. Maddie Porter made significant defensive contributions with seven saves and became the first player in EMU history to surpass 100 career ground balls, currently standing at 103.

Despite EMU's improved offensive performance compared to past encounters, the Wolverines continue to lead the all-time series 3-0. The contest at the EMU Indoor Practice Facility signified the second consecutive indoor meeting affected by adverse weather conditions.

Looking ahead, EMU aims to bounce back with a home match against the University of Detroit Mercy on April 6 at Scicluna Field. The game is pivotal for conference standings, as they face off with the Titans, who are currently undefeated in the MAC conference.

For continued updates, EMU lacrosse enthusiasts can follow the team on various social media platforms, including X and Instagram at EMU_Lacrosse.