Princeton wins M. Lax national crown

Princeton (14-1) had let a three-goal fourth quarter lead slip away, but succeeded in getting the ball to sophomore star Hubbard, who found the net for the third time with a low bounding shot. His goal ended the game, which was broadcast to a live television audience on ESPN. Virginia slipped to 13-4 on the year. Two days earlier, the Tigers had slipped past high-powered Syracuse to earn a place in the final. Although Princeton ran out to an early 7-1 lead, the Orangemen (11-4) rallied to tie the game in the fourth quarter before Ben Strutt put the favorites in front for good. Princeton had held the No. 1 ranking in all the national polls and in the tournament seedings. The program, which has blossomed under coach Bill Tierney, had won previous national titles in 1992 and 1994. All three Tigers championship games have been decided in overtime. This was also Princeton's second title victory at Maryland's facility. The Tigers finished their Ivy schedule with a perfect 6-0 record, including a 19-4 drubbing of Penn on April 3 at Princeton's brand new Class of 1952 Stadium. -- Jordan Smith