Everything either of these teams have worked for over this past season comes down to this game. This is the NCAA D-I Championship, one of the most recognized lacrosse events in the United States. The stage is set for a 2010 rematch between these two teams but everything is different now.
For Duke, Myles Jones was not around in 2010. He has become a reliable power house of ability and strength. You’ll see defenders attempt to size him up, but they’ll be shorter. In this case, the height difference will mean having to take extra steps (literally and metaphorically) to keep up and halt Jones’ attempts to get to the cage.
Luke Aaron seems to have found a good groove in the cage for the postseason. He’s been more consistent than during the regular season and is an intimidating presence in front of many shooters.
Notre Dame has risen with new energy from players like Matt Kavanagh and Conor Doyle. Kavanagh has stolen much of the spotlight this season lighting up the Irish offense with numerous goals, intensity in his efforts, and an overwhelming ability to back up shots.
Conor Kelly and Shane Ross have split playing time in front of the cage approximately 60-40 this season. Both have performed to stellar levels and (I would say) are comparable to the abilities on the Blue Devil’s side of the cage.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Matt Kavanagh and Myles Jones will each continuously drive to attack to cage. They both understand that this game will come down to who accumulated more opportunities. The last time these two teams met in 2010, the exciting game was a slow one due to low scoring. I expect that’ll change today, and a higher score will be recorded.
Duke’s defense will drive the ball behind the cage and attempt to keep it there, whereas the Irish defense could focus more on keeping the ball on the wings rather than up top.
Both teams’ goalies will perform expertly.
PREDICTION
Duke 14
Notre Dame 13
