Wolves Claw Back To Earn Draw Against Spartans

COLUMBUS, Ga. - The Tampa Spartans took on the Newberry Wolves in the opening matchup of the CSU Invitational and came out with a 1-1 draw. After two overtime periods, the Spartans and Wolves found themselves deadlocked at the Walden Soccer Complex Friday afternoon.

Despite the result, Tampa dominated the contest from start to finish as they controlled the pace of the match and held 60% of the possession, as well as outshot their opponent 22-8. The Spartans looked like they were in midseason form as their touch, vision, and chemistry were superb.

Offensively, UT played with high intensity and relentless effort. Transfers Nastasia Asgedom and Gabby Scirica contributed to this by not conceding an inch to defenders and pounced on every loose ball. Seniors Lauren Moore and Cici Gonzalez also looked to be in prime form as they unleashed shots on target from 30, 40 and even 50 yards out.

The combination of Moore and Gonzalez caused fits for the NC defense and proved to be too much. At the 33 minute mark, Sarah Raymond crossed in a ball from 40 yards out and was met by the head of Gonzalez the perfectly placed ball went past the outstretched arms of the Wolves keeper to give Tampa the early lead.

Defensively the squad looked as formidable as ever denying every counter attack launched by Newberry. Miranda Gonzalez and Audrey Hayward anchored down the Spartans defense, along with the rest of the back line; however, the one moment of vulnerability was taken advantage of by the Wolves as Erica Lynch caught the defense napping after a quickly taken free kick bounced off a defender and landed at her feet. This was the opening Lynch needed as she notched a goal to bring her squad level at the 79 minute mark.

After regulation, both sides were still battling trying to give their side the advantage to pull head late during the golden goal stage of overtime. Despite both sides best efforts, no one was able to put away a game winner.

The Spartans continue CSU Invitational play as they take on Tusculum Sunday. Kickoff is set for 9:00 a.m. live stats and video coverage will be available for fans.

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