LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern College women's soccer (5-1-2, 2-1-1 SSC) secured a 1-0 victory over Palm Beach Atlantic University (2-4-4, 1-1-2 SSC) at Berend Field on Saturday, with the game's lone goal coming in the first half. The Moccasins honored nine seniors prior to the game:
Carly Brodsky, Jasmin Adames, Jordan King, Allie Draper, Liliana Jeffries, Megan Rhonemus, Valeria Castellanos, Alison Jenkins, and
Madison Male.
The first half began with Florida Southern setting the tone early, as Adames and
Sierra Spirk both tested the Sailfish's goalkeeper with shots in the opening minutes. Despite several attempts from both teams, the breakthrough came in the 38th minute when
Ava Hackworth scored, assisted by
Breena Harrigan, giving FSC a 1-0 lead.
Throughout the half, Florida Southern maintained defensive resilience, limiting Palm Beach Atlantic's scoring opportunities to shots that missed the target. The half concluded with the Moccasins ahead 1-0, setting a positive foundation for the remainder of the match.
Florida Southern commenced the second half with momentum, as
Rilee Hasegawa tested the Sailfish's defense with a shot in the 46th minute, only to be stopped by goalkeeper Brooke Delzatto. The Mocs continued to apply pressure, earning a corner kick in the 49th minute, but were unable to capitalize on the opportunity.
The defensive efforts of
Carly Brodsky were crucial in maintaining the lead, as she made significant saves against shots from Faith Hardy and Ariana Jones, preserving FSC's advantage. The half concluded with the Mocs holding a 1-0 lead over Palm Beach Atlantic, as neither team managed to alter the scoreline during the second half.
Hackworth scored the game-winning goal for Florida Southern, her first collegiate goal, with her single shot on goal. Brodsky recorded a shutout, making two saves to secure the victory, her sixth shutout of the season. Harrigan contributed with an assist, adding to her season total.
Abigail Longstaff led the Sailfish with four shots, creating opportunities for the team. Goalkeeper Delzatto recorded two saves, facing eight shots and allowing just one goal. Hardy and Jones each had one shot on goal, contributing to the offensive effort.
The next challenge for the Moccasins takes them to Winter Park, Fla., where they will face Rollins College on October 8. The match is set for 7 p.m. at Barker Family Stadium and Cahall-Sandspur Field.
