USA Soccer’s Historic Season Ends Against FSU In NCAA Tournament
The University of South Alabama Women’s Soccer team pose after wining their first-ever Sun Belt Conference Championship by defeating Western Kentucky 1-0 on Sunday in San Marcos, Texas. | sunbeltsports.org
The University of South Alabama Women’s Soccer team saw their historic season come to an end on Friday against the top-ranked Florida State Seminoles in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in a 5-0 loss.
South Alabama (14-6-3) ended its most successful season ever with their first-ever Sun Belt Conference Tournament title and their first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament. The 14 wins are the second-most in program history. FSU advances to the second round of their 14th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
Seniors Clarissa Hernandez, Jess Oram and Shelby Owen all made their 84th start for the Jaguars to extend their records for most most games played at South Alabama.
Florida State (19-1-3) scored their first goal in the ninth minute and never looked back. They held a 3-0 advantage at the half but would add another goal just over a minute into the second half. They outshot the Jags 20-3 in the match.
The 5-0 loss was the worst losing margin for the Jaguars since USA lost to FSU 9-0 on August 31, 2012.
“I’m really proud of the girls tonight,” said Jaguar head coach Graham Winkworth. “They have worked extremely hard. I think we came out a little shaky and, unfortunately, conceded some early goals with all the nerves. This is the first time that our program has been in this situation, so it’s understandable to have those nerves.”
“What I enjoy most and respect the most about Florida State is that they are a very well-coached team,” he continued. “They are class acts on the field as well. They are top-class players that are clearly experienced, but what makes me like Florida State over a lot of teams in the ACC is just the style of soccer they play.”
This was the final game for the following seniors: Lauren Arnold, Lindsey Snavely, Clarissa Hernandez, Melissa Drish, Stacie Bevens, Tatum Perry, Lizzie Goldsmith, Shelby Owen, Morgan Motes and Jess Oram. Thank you being South Alabama Jaguars. Once a Jaguar, always a Jaguar!