Sept. 2, 2011
COLLEGE PARK, Maryland - Stanford dropped its second consecutive road game to a quality opponent, falling 4-0 at Maryland on Friday night. Playing in front of a national TV audience and over 7,000 fans, the Terrapins got off to a fast start and never let Stanford into the game.
Maryland scored all four of its goals in the first half, including one just 22 seconds into the match. Patrick Mullins score almost immediately, after a turnover in the midfield led to the Terrapin opportunity.
The quick goal swayed momentum in Maryland's favor and they did not let up in the first half. Their offensive onslaught continued throughout the half as Casey Townsend made it 2-0 in the 10th minute.
The score could have been worse, but Jason Dodson made a great save moments before when a header appeared headed for the back of the net, but Dodson made a terrific reaction save to tip the shot wide.
Maryland continued to press, adding goals in the 28th and 30th minutes.
The game went to the half with Maryland leading 4-0 and Stanford looking for answers.
The answers began to come in the second half, as the game was played entirely different after the break. Stanford settled in and earned some chances at the offensive end, while also not allowing Maryland to dictate things in the Cardinal defensive third.
Dersu Abolfathi started things off in the 46th minute when he cracked a volley that sailed just wide. Overall the Cardinal had three shots in the half, but controlled much more of the possession in the second frame.
Freshman Felipe Noguerol had two shots as the Cardinal totaled five for the game. Stanford held Maryland to just five in the second half, after allowing 10 in the first half.
Dodson picked up the loss in goal, but did make two saves and was under constant pressure.
The Cardinal will continue its opening road swing when it faces Georgetown on Sunday, Sept. 4, at 10:00 a.m., PT. The Hoyas are currently receiving votes in the NSCAA poll and will be another difficult road test for the Cardinal.