Madison Taylor Sets the Stage as Northwestern Wildcats Charge to Final Four
EVANSTON, Ill. – In a breathtaking display of athleticism and determination, Madison Taylor**’s six-goal performance not only shattered the NCAA single-season goal record but also propelled the No. 2 Northwestern Wildcats past No. 12 Penn, securing a 17-12 victory in Thursday’s NCAA Quarterfinal at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium.
A Record-Breaking Performance
The victory marks the sixth consecutive year the Wildcats (18-2) have advanced to the Final Four. With an astounding 105 goals this season, Taylor has outdone High Point’s Abby Hormes, who previously held the record of 103 goals set in 2022. Additionally, Taylor’s tally of 10 points, complemented by four assists, elevates her season total to 146 points**, breaking Hannah Nielson’s (142) record from 2009.
"Count ‘Em ?? Nobody has scored more goals in a year than Maddy Taylor!"
— Northwestern Lax (@NULax)
Wild Start by the Wildcats
The Wildcats stormed out of the gate, scoring the first four goals of the match. Lucy Munro ignited the offense with two goals in just 54 seconds. Following Taylor Lapointe’s contribution, Taylor capped off the explosive start by netting her 100th goal of the season, putting Northwestern ahead 4-0 with 8:26 left in the first quarter. Despite their lead, the Quakers fought back, scoring three of the last four goals, ending the first quarter with a 5-3 scoreline.
Resilient Second Quarter
Northwestern came out hot in the second quarter, securing three consecutive goals from Lapointe, Emerson Bohlig, and Taylor, extending their lead to 8-3. After a brief response from Penn, Taylor assisted Abby LoCascio before scoring her fourth goal, leading to a 10-5 halftime advantage.
Taylor’s achievement of breaking Hormes’ NCAA record came during the third quarter when she scored a free position goal, pushing the score to 11-7. However, the Quakers surged back, closing the gap to 11-10 after scoring five of the first six goals in the period.
"FINAL FOUR BOUND ?? #CatsWin! See you in Foxborough!"
— Northwestern Lax (@NULax)
Clutch Performances in the Fourth
The Wildcats regrouped after Penn’s pressure, thanks to Bohlig’s quick turnover and Niki Miles stepping up to halt the Quakers’ momentum. Taylor’s sixth goal helped Northwestern reestablish a 13-10 lead heading into the final quarter. Goals from Riley Campbell and Miles, aided by Taylor’s fourth assist, increased the Wildcats’ lead to 15-10 and they never let it dip below three goals thereafter.
Dominating on the Draw
Possession was a critical factor in Northwestern’s success, as they showcased their prowess with a 23-10 advantage in draw controls led by Sam Smith, who secured 15 draws. In addition to Taylor’s record-breaking performance, contributions from Miles, Munro, and Lapointe, each scoring two goals, solidified the win. Delaney Sweitzer made six crucial saves in goal, improving her record to 16-2.
"POV: You just advanced to the semifinals ???"
— Northwestern Lax (@NULax)
What’s Next for the Wildcats?
Looking ahead, the Wildcats face the winner of the quarterfinal clash between Boston College and Yale on Friday, May 23, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Viewers can catch all the action live on ESPNU.
With Taylor leading the charge, the Wildcats are poised to make a run for the championship, showcasing their talent and resilience as they aim for glory in the NCAA tournament.
