Tampa Grabs SSC Quarterfinal Victory Over Lynn
TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa women's soccer team defeated Lynn University in the SSC quarterfinals by a score of 2-1.
"The team played fantastic again tonight," says head coach Gerry Lucey. "Their spirit, desire and determination was very evident to beat an opponent that we undeservedly lost to a couple of weeks. The difference today was that we took our opportunities when presented and completely controlled the game from the 1st minute to last. Samantha Kay was brilliant again giving us an energetic performance and being a true leader on the field."
The Spartans offense started quickly in the first half with a long goal from Samantha Kay in minute eight. She was assisted by Marta Bertsos and Gabby Russo. Russo now has 12 assists on the season to lead her team.
Lynn was able to capitalize on a Spartan foul in minute 15 to tie the game at one. Lauren Handley, whom took the free kick, was credited with the assist while Lauren Impey netted the goal.
Lauren Moore gave Tampa a 2-1 lead in minute 17 with a penalty kick goal due to a foul on UT freshman Gabby Russo in the box. Moore now has six goals on the season.
The second half of the game was dominated by defense, as the score from the first half would be the final. Emelie Karstrom allowed only one goal throughout the game, and her defense continually set the tone for the rest of the team.
The Spartan offense maintained control throughout the game as they outshot the Fighting Knights 22 to 5, and 11 to 2 on shots on goal.
Tampa will take on St. Leo University on Friday in the SSC semifinals at 11 a.m. in St. Leo, Fla. Live stats will be available through www.tampaspartans.com.
"We now look toward Fridays game against St. Leo and an opportunity to gain a little revenge for our loss here last week," comments Lucey. "They have a strong team this year and it will require a total team performance to beat them."
Fans may also follow University of Tampa athletics on Twitter (www.twitter.com/utspartans), Facebook (www.facebook.com/tampaspartans) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/utathletics). UT also offers blAst, a free text messaging service that sends text alerts following all Spartan events. To sign up, please register at www.tampaspartans.com.