Cardinals Down Michigan 3-1 in Preseason Exhibition

Sunday, August 19

Columbus, OH

4:00 p.m.

University of Louisville

Michigan (EXHIBITION)

Taylor Stone and Bethany Russ celebrate a goal in the 2018 Alumnae Game

August 19, 2018 | Field Hockey

Taylor Stone scores twice, Carter Ayars adds an insurance goal

By: Lori Korte

The University of Louisville field hockey team wrapped up preseason competition with a 3-1 exhibition win over 2017 NCAA semifinalist Michigan Sunday afternoon at Ohio State's Buckeye Varsity Field.

Senior Taylor Stone notched a pair of goals and junior Carter Ayars added a third score to increase Louisville's offensive output tally to 11 goals in two scrimmages.

"Today gave us an opportunity to be tested by a very good team," said UofL head coach Justine Sowry. "They put pressure on us on both sides of the ball that we have not faced at this early stage. We were able to make some adjustments at half time to improve our performance and gain more possession of the ball. Michigan also provided a physicality that will help us for next weekend."

The Cards jumped to an early 1-0 lead when Stone connected on a penalty corner goal. The third-ranked Wolverines answered and the teams entered halftime with the score knotted at 1-1.

In the second half, Stone added her second goal of the game and Ayars converted a penalty stroke to give UofL the 3-1 win.

Louisville will officially open the 2018 season Friday when the Cardinals travel to Bloomington, Ind., to take on Indiana University at 3 p.m. The Cards will welcome Ohio State to Trager Stadium for their home opener Sunday at 1 p.m.

"Overall we are happy with our progress this preseason and we look forward to improving day by day," said Sowry. "It's a short season with not a lot of room for complacency. Our energy and enthusiasm is in a terrific place and we cannot wait for our opening game on Friday."