Box Score LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Lamar University's fantastic season came to an end at the hands of UCLA Friday evening. The Cardinals were knocked out of the NCAA Tournament with a 4-1 loss to the second-seeded Bruins in Los Angeles.
 
"UCLA is one of the tops teams in the country. They have a national team player at every position," said LU head coach Steve Holeman. "This was a unique opportunity for us to play in an incredible environment. They have a very explosive team but I thought we were very disciplined in our approach and held our own. I'm very proud of this team.
 
"We have a group of competitors here. They give everything they have night in and night out. We went after UCLA when we could and created some turnovers but they are so athletic and so good defensively," added Holeman.
 
The Bruins got started early with a goal coming just nine minutes into the match. UCLA's Jessie Fleming had a fantastic strike from just outside the box that soared into the upper corner of the net. The Bruins added another goal in the 32^nd minute. A few great blocks ended with the ball falling to Delanie Sheehan who finished it. UCLA was able to get one more on the board before the half.
 
The Cardinals struggled on both sides of the ball in the first half, but they were able to step it up in the second half. The Cardinals had just one shot in the first half, however, they had five shots in the second half making it six on the night. Defensively, the team let in three first half goals, but they sealed it up to only let in one second half goal.
 
Junior Lucy Ashworth added her 19^th goal of the season to put the Cardinals on the board. It was only her second shot of the night, but she found the back of the net. This goal puts Ashworth alone in fourth nationally in goals.
 
The Cardinals held strong in the second half to concede only one to the Bruins. This was a combination of great defense and an outstanding performance from Freshman goalkeeper Erin Branch. She played a big role for the Cards tonight with 14 saves.
 
Although the Cardinals season is over, the team has accomplished great things this year. Lamar won both the Southland Conference regular season and the Southland tournament titles. The team also posted a 12-game win streak. Juniors Lucy Ashworth and Esther Okoronkwo made national headlines with their outstanding seasons.
 
"We had a phenomenal season and our ladies know that," said Holeman. "We had an amazing year and it is something for all of them to be very proud of. I think this is something they will remember for the rest of their lives."