#25 Tampa Falls in Overtime at Christian Brothers

COLUMBUS, Ga. – The No. 25 ranked University of Tampa women's soccer team fell short in its season-opener, an out of conference road contest against Christian Brothers University.

INSIDE THE MATCHUP:

Final: Christian Brothers 3, #25 Tampa 2 (OT)

Location: Walden Soccer Complex || Columbus, Ga.

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HOW IT HAPPENED:

First Half: The Spartans logged the game's first shot off the foot of Stephanie deLaforcade in the sixth minute. The Bucs answered with three consecutive shots, one on goal.  The next six shots of the game came from the Spartans and Tampa's persistence paid off in the 40^th minute with a shot by Jalyssa Richardson (unassisted) that found the back of the net. Just two minutes later, Madison McElhone buried a shot, assisted by Jackie Morris, that gave Tampa a 2-0 lead. The Spartans outshot the Bucs 10-3 in the opening half. Score: 2-0 Tampa

Second Half: The Spartans and Bucs traded shots to open the half with both landing wide of the net, respectively. Christian Brothers stayed on the attack to open the second frame, netting two goals in the 54^th minute, tying the match 2-2. The Spartans outshot the Bucs 4-1 in the remaining time with quality chances coming for deLaforcade in the 67^th minute and Laken Gallman in the 86^th minute, who nearly potted the match-winner. Score: 2-2 Tied

Overtime: Christian Brothers scored a golden goal just 25 seconds into the overtime period for the win. Final: 3-2 Bucs

INSIDE THE STATS:

• The Spartans enjoyed an even attack, with six players logging two shots: Laken Gallman, Alex Steigelfest, Stephanie deLaforcade, Brooke Steigerwalt, Hannah Kirkpatrick, and Erin McCarthy.
• McElhone scored the first goal of her career
• Jackie Morris earned her third career point with her assist on the McElhone goal.
• The Spartans outshot the Bucs 15-10 (7-5 SOG).

UP NEXT: The Spartans continue their road trip with an early morning matchup at the West Alabama Tigers at 9:00 AM on Sunday, September 5.