The Owls relied on their defense Saturday in an 18-3 win against the University of California, Berkeley at Geasey Field.
The team’s defense applied constant pressure on Saturday, limiting the Golden Bears to 13 shots.
Senior goalkeeper Jaqi Kakalecik totaled 9 saves.
“We were focused on being a lot more high pressure [aggressive] than we normally are,” said Kakalecik. “Sometimes we tend to sit back on the 8-meter, and by pressuring out, it gave us time to look for double teams.”
The defense also forced 11 turnovers and trapped Cal ball handlers, neutralizing their offensive attack.
“We worked this week on our transition defense and some defensive plays where we were really working on actively stepping back and stepping over, turning someone back and doubling them,” coach Bonnie Rosen.
Rosen said she has stressed communication to her team, and she said they have responded with constant talking and cohesive play style.
Temple shot 23 of its total 35 shots in the first half, while also winning 10 draw controls and drawing 22 fouls.
“[Our chemistry is] definitely built throughout the course of the season,” said Kakalecik. “We’re spending all of our free time and lacrosse time together, getting those big wins, [working] day in and day out at practice and hanging out on the weekends creates a bond that is a major reason why we’re so successful.”
The Owls’ offense was also fueled by communication and passing, with 9 of 18 points coming from assist.
Luis Cabrera can be reached at luis.cabrera@temple.edu
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