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North Carolina defeated Florida in Gainesville on Saturday afternoon, 14-9. The Tar Heels got revenge from last year’s matchup in the first round of the NCAA tournament, where the Gators won 17-8.

The first few minutes of the match consisted of solid defense from both teams leading to turnovers.

The Tarheels struck first blood with a goal from Chloe Humphrey. The redshirt freshman extended North Carolina’s lead to 2-0 on a free position opportunity.

Chloe Humphrey has been crucial to the Tar Heels offense this season, entering Saturday with eight goals through two games.

Florida got on the board with a score from Gianna Monaco, assisted by skilled passer Frannie Hahn. 

North Carolina converted two more goals before the end of the first, extending its lead, 4-1.

The Gators committed six turnovers in the first quarter and only had two shots on goal, compared to the Tar Heels’ six. 

The second began with a family affair for both squads. Josie Hahn scored her first goal of the season with an assist from her sister Frannie Hahn. North Carolina kept the sentiment alive with a Chole Humphrey score, assisted by sister Ashley Humphrey. 

The Gators scored two more goals after the halfway point in the second, one from Kaitlyn Davies and another from Gabbi Greene. Florida found new energy and showed no fear when attacking the net.

North Carolina responded with two straight goals in a minute. One from Kate Levy, and one from Inside Lacrosse’s No.1 recruit in the Class of 2023, Chloe Humphrey.

The Tar Heels led at halftime, 7-4.

The defenses stood their ground to start the second half, limiting shot attempts and offensive production.

However, that all changed with a Davies goal at 10:51. The Gator junior was selected as Big 12 Preseason Midfielder of the Year and continues to lead Florida’s young team. 

The Tar Heels outscored the Gators 4-1 in the final nine minutes of the third, thanks to dominance in the draw circle and the excellence of the Humphrey sisters.

North Carolina led 11-6 heading into the final quarter.

In the final 15, both teams exchanged goals back and forth before the halfway point. Florida tried to rally with 6:57 to go, however, time and turnovers got the best of the Gators.

Ashley Humphrey scored the dagger with 2:31 to go, putting the exclamation mark on a great performance. The graduate student scored three goals in the game and assisted on six. 

The No.3 Tarheels prevailed 14-9, handing No.5 Florida its first home loss since May 14, 2023, against Notre Dame. 

The Gators will travel to Tampa for its next matchup against South Florida on Tuesday, February 18. The Bulls are 3-0 to start the season, outscoring opponents 47-21. First draw is set for 6 p.m.