Catholic University went on a seven-goal run late in the first half and that proved to be the difference as the 14th-ranked Cardinals defeated Colorado College, 14-7, on Sunday in Washington, D.C.
After Kristin Rider tied the game at 3-3 on a free-position shot with 12:53 remaining in the first half, Laura Haring scored back-to-back goals to ignite the decisive streak.
CC still was within striking distance after Kelly Ryan extended Catholic's lead to 7-3 with 5:40 to go, but Kate Narzikul struck for a pair of goals during the final 59 seconds, including one as time expired, to put the Cardinals ahead 9-3 after 30 minutes.
After Meghan Brady added another score 2:04 into the second half, goals by Maggie Defanti and Rider pulled the Tigers to within 10-5, but that was as close as they would get.
The Cardinals registered a 33-30 edge in total shots, including a 27-19 advantage in shots on goal.
Abby Fink recorded a season-high 13 saves for CC.
Grace Maloney led the defensive effort with four ground balls and three caused turnovers.
Colorado College travels to Durango, Colo., next weekend to face Regis University and Fort Lewis College.
