The Gators took on their second top-five ranked opponent of the season Saturday—and once again was defeated to drop below .500 on the season.
No. 7 Florida (1-2) fell to No. 5 Maryland (3-0) 18-8 Saturday in an underwhelming performance. The Gators scored just two points in the second half and was outshot 37-22 by the Terps’.
The game began somewhat competitively, with both squads trading goals in the first six minutes. Maryland then went on a 6-0 run to stretch out their lead. Florida managed a 5-1 run in response and cut their deficit to 9-6 headed into halftime.
Danielle Pavinelli led the way in scoring with 4 goals. The sophomore has a hat trick in each of her three games this season. Junior Emily Heller scored a hat trick of her own and Sophomore Maggi Hall recorded a season-high three assists in the game.
The Terrapins closed the game on a 9-2 run and triumphed over Florida. The loss marks the Gators’ largest margin of defeat this season. It’s still early, but underperforming against top-ranked competition is an uneasy sign for things to come.
Florida is back at home to face off against Stony Brook on Saturday, Mar. 5 at 10 a.m.