U-M Edged by Harvard in Overtime of CWPA Championship Quarterfinals
By: Sydney Miller
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The No. 16-ranked University of Michigan water polo team came up just short in a 9-8 overtime loss to No. 15 Harvard on Saturday (April 26) afternoon in the CWPA Championship quarterfinals at the Katherine Moran Coleman Aquatics Center.
Ari Karampetsou and Kasey Umlauf powered Michigan's (18-11) offense, each scoring two key goals to keep the Wolverines in the game. Freshman goalkeeper Sophia Bunnell recorded a career-high 15 saves to anchor the Michigan defense. Her performance, especially during Harvard's (25-6) 17 power-play opportunities, was essential in keeping U-M within striking distance.
The Maize and Blue started strong, matching Harvard goal for goal in a fast-paced opening frame. Karampetsou drew a penalty early and converted the opportunity to tie the game at 1-1. Umlauf later scored from inside the two-meter, pulling U-M even once again at 2-2 before the horn.
Momentum swung back and forth in the second period. Brooke Ingram put the Maize and Blue in front, but Harvard responded quickly. The Wolverines stayed aggressive, with Karampetsou burying her second penalty shot of the day to knot the score at 4-4 before halftime.
The Wolverines' defense stepped up after halftime, shutting Harvard out in the third quarter. Umlauf found the back of the net once again, giving Michigan a 5-4 lead.
The fourth quarter brought an offensive surge from both sides. After Harvard tied the game, Emma Gustafsson answered with a quick goal to reclaim the lead. The Maize and Blue continued to show resilience, as Lulu Hirschfield added a crucial goal and Maiken Pardon converted a key penalty shot to push the Wolverines ahead, 8-7. However, Harvard managed to equalize late in the period, sending the game to overtime.
In overtime, Harvard struck first. Michigan generated several chances, drawing exclusions and forcing defensive adjustments, but couldn't capitalize to find the tying goal. Despite a late timeout to set up a final play, U-M was unable to break through, and the Wolverines fell 9-8.
Next, the Wolverines will take on Bucknell in the third-place game on Sunday (April 27) at 11 a.m. at the Katherine Moran Coleman Aquatics Center. The matchup will be streamed live on ESPN+.
