Another valiant effort by the Lee women’s soccer team came up one goal short in the opening round of the NCAA Division II National Championships on a cold Friday evening at the University of North Alabama athletic field.
The University of Tampa tallied the only goal of the match at the 13:49 mark of the first half and then held on for dear life to claim a 1-0 victory and advance to the second round to face host North Alabama on Sunday.
"Although the result didn't fall our way this evening, the effort and desire the girls showed, especially second half, was incredible," said Lee coach Chris Hennessey
The goal came off a free kick and was headed into the net by Ali Robinson. It came off a perfectly delivered assist from All-American Miranda Gonzalez.
The rest of the evening appeared to be controlled by the never-say-die Lady Flames. In the first half, Lee out-shot Tampa 6-3 and in the second half Lee completely dominated with 11 shots to just one by the Florida club. Overall, the Lady Flames fired 17 shots to only four for Tampa.
Five of Lee’s shots were on target but time and time again Tampa goalkeeper Caroline Frykgard came away with a key save. Another shot hit the top of the frame and a couple more sailed just over the top of the net. Frykgard finished the heated battle with five saves.
On the other end, the Lee defense continually turned the ball away from the Tampa offensive attack. Meagan Newman, McKenzie Bricker, Laura Thacker and Kinsey Cichowitz were on top of their game the entire match.
The Lady Flames also were awarded seven corner kicks as they repeatedly moved the ball deep into Tampa’s defense. The Florida club had only two corners the entire evening.
Lee closed out an outstanding season and its first appearance in a NCAA national tournament with an 11-5-4 record, while Tamps advances with an 11-4-5 mark.
“Again I'm very proud.of this group. They have shown tremendous courage and commitment throughout the season. It's sad that it has to end this evening, but I want to thank all the players and staff for their hard work and dedication to the program this season,” added Hennessey.
"This year the girls showed they have the ability to compete at this level. I think the experience they gained from the past couple of weeks will prove invaluable for next year. Although losing Laura will be a big loss to the program, the positive thing is that the majority of players will be back next year,” he concluded.