Spartans Battle To Double Overtime Victory Over #7 Rollins

Box score

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa (12-5, 5-3 SSC) women's soccer team persevered in a senior night victory over No. 7 Rollins College (9-3-2, 4-2-2 SSC), defeating the Tars in double overtime by a 1-0 score at Pepin Stadium.

"Tonight was a tremendous step forward for our program," says head coach Gerry Lucey. "The team applied itself exceptionally and had a lot of belief. We have been very close the past couple of years against ranked opponents and this was a just reward for our hard work and endeavor."

In a game that included just two shots on goal, UT's Samantha Kay rocketed a kick from 20 yards into the back of the net. The goal, coming with just under two minutes to play in the final overtime period, was a result of a Courtney Peffley cross that also touched Carolyn Simon. The assist marked the 10th of the season for Peffley, who moved into a ninth place tie on UT's single-season assist chart.

"Our junior class has been through the tough times of last season and had a huge weight on their shoulders after we came off the national championship win in 2007," says Lucey. "I'm delighted that Samantha Kay was able to latch onto Peffley's pass and bury it beyond the Rollins keeper. Samantha Kay has epitomized the true Tampa attitude during her career and nobody is more deserving to score one of the biggest goals of recent times. Courtney Peffley is always dangerous and has an inate ability to set up her teammates."

Freshman goalkeeper Leah Cesanek had her eighth shutout of the season, finishing with one save on the night. Both teams were credited with seven shots and one on goal for each.

Rollins has been conference champions the past two years and we were determined not to allow them an opportunity to win a third on our own turf," states Lucey. "It's a great day to be a Spartan and hopefully we can kick on from here."

The game also served as senior day for three UT players, including starters Pasquale Anderson and Luana Miessa. Lindsay O'Bryan was also honored in a pre-game ceremony with the families and teammates of these three student-athletes.

"I'm delighted that Lindsay O'Bryan has been able to influence our program in a positive light," says head coach Gerry Lucey. "Although she has had the unfortunate experience of having ACL problems the last thee years, she has always maintained an identity with our team. Lindsay is our last remaining link with the 2007 national championship. Her attitude and understanding will be sorely missed. Lindsay, despite her injuries has always given us exactly what we need."

The victory allows the Spartans to host a Sunshine State Conference quarterfinal match, with the third and fourth seeds playing on their home turf on Tuesday. Please visit www.tampaspartans.com for complete pairings as they are announced.

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