Lexington, Ky. --- The Georgia Southern men's soccer team (13-4-1, 6-3 SBC) fell in overtime to UCF (8-6-3, 4-3-2 SBC) by a 3-2 margin in the Sun Belt Tournament Quarterfinals on Sunday evening (November 9th).
While the Eagles managed to stave off the offensive attack of the Knights in the opening half hour, both teams settled in for the majority of the first half while they battled wintry conditions in Kentucky. However, in the 34th minute, an intercepted pass by
Emil Seedorff would set up a quick counterattack in which
Ricky Louis would receive a through ball just outside the box. After a touch, he fired a ball with his left foot the found the net for Southern to take the lead, and they would hold it going into the half.
The goal was one of three shots that the Eagles had on the half, while they also attempted four corner kicks. Mate Martinez also made two saves in the opening 45 minutes as well.
Both team once again avoided an offensive onslaught out the gate, as it wouldn't be until the 63rd minute that the pressure amped up. Louis was able to draw a foul in the box, but instead of him to take it,
Harry Dale would approach the spot. The sophomore midfielder was able to strike a shot that was just under the crossbar to give the Eagles to 2-0 lead. For Dale, it would be the first goal of his collegiate career.Â
After the ensuing whistle, however, the Knights took over. Just 40 seconds after the PK, Clarence Awoudor for the Knights struck to halve the lead. Just three minutes later, a cross into the box by Lilian Ricol would sail just long in the windy air and was just high and long enough to draw the match even. The Eagles' defense staved off any more attacks in the half, but it would take overtime to decide the match.
In the second overtime period, it was the Knights' Drew Hansen to score on a second chance after a deflection by Martinez to win it for UCF in the 103rd minute. The Knights outshot the Eagles 14-7, while taking three more corners than Southern. Martinez made four saves on the evening while 24 fouls were called across the match.
The Eagles still have a chance at making the NCAA Tournament, as they are ranked 34th in RPI. The NCAA Selection Show is set for 1 PM on Monday, November 17th.Â
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