ST. PAUL, MINN. – The University of Men's lacrosse team returned home this weekend to face the Cougars of Concordia University Chicago. This is the second all-time meeting between the two Midwest Lacrosse Conference (MLC) opponents, with Northwestern defeating the Cougars 11-3 last season. The Eagles take down the Cougars (4-6, 2-3 MLC) again by a final score of 18-5, improving their record to 5-3 overall and an even 3-3 in MLC games.
 
Northwestern got off to a hot to begin the game, scoring three unanswered goals. Keller Stephens (Lino Lakes, Minn./Mounds View) scored two of those goals, allowing him to reach the 100 goal mark on his career. The Cougars were able to net one goal in the first half, during a UNW penalty. The Eagles would hold a 6-1 lead at halftime.
 
The UNW offense exploded in the third frame, scoring eight goals to CUC's two. They did not let up in the fourth quarter, as they added an additional four goals to cruise to the 18-5 win. After being held scoreless in the first half, Noah Vander Kooi (Buffalo, Minn./Buffalo) was able to net a trio of goals in the second half to join Stephens in the century club.
 
Stephens ended the game with a game-high seven goals. Vander Kooi finished the contest with four goals to go along with two assists. Chase Marlenee (Northfield, Minn./Northfield) also had a successful game with three goals and five assists. On the defensive end, Bryce Schmidgall (Hancock, Minn./Hancock) caused five turnovers and picked up four ground balls. Goalkeeper Zach Schockency only allowed five goals and notched five saves in the win.
 
Northwestern will travel to Ashland, Wisconsin to face Northland College for the second time this season on Wednesday, April 10 for their next contest. For all things Eagle lacrosse, fans can follow @unw_lacrosse on Instagram and visit www.unweagles.com.