No. 8 Florida Withstands Miami's Second-Half Surge

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – In the season-opener for both teams, the University of Miami women’s soccer team fell 2-0 to the University of Florida in front of a 1,850 fans Friday evening at Cobb Stadium.

“I’m very, very proud of how our women played,” said first-year head coach Tom Anagnost. “I’m happy about the high number of quality chances we created… it’s just unfortunate we couldn’t get some of those chances to go in.”

Both teams had their opportunities in the first half, but keepers Vikki Alonzo (UM) and Brooke Chancey (UF) stood tall in net, turning away a combined eight shots. However, UF’s Maggie Rodgers ended the stalemate in the 37th minute on a feed from Erika Tymrak.

The Gators then extended their lead just six minutes into the second half when Tymrak left a quick, one-touch pass for Havana Solaun, who found the back of the right side of the net from the top of the 18-yard box.

The Canes refused to give in as their offense recorded nine second-half shots, with Tara Schwitter acting as the catalyst. The sophomore took and placed perfect corners, giving her team every possible opportunity to get back into the contest. In all, the Canes forced eight corner kicks – including six after the break – to just two for the Gators.

Sophomore Ali Brennan led all UM players with four shots, three of which came off feeds from Schwitter. Alonzo played well in goal, recording nine saves on the night.

Freshman Ashley Flinn showed why she was such a big recruit for Anagnost and his staff, as she displayed her speed with two one-vs.-one opportunities in the opening frame. However, her first effort was just wide, while the second was turned away by the charging Chancey.

Miami will only have two days to recover as they will host Monmouth on Sunday at Cobb Stadium.

“Our mentality has to be `OK, we just brush ourselves off and go back to work tomorrow'” Anagnost said. “We need to do some things in front of the goal and hopefully we can get one or more of those to go in on Sunday.”

First touch is scheduled for 6 p.m.

The Hurricanes new season ticket package that will include two (2) adult and (3) youth tickets to all home volleyball and soccer events during the 2011 season is still being offered.  The Family Plan provides a family of five with more than 20 events for the incredible price of $50.  Purchase a Volleyball and Soccer Family Plan by calling 1-800-Go Canes or buy online.