Canes Force OT, Earn 1-1 Tie with NC State

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – The University of Miami women’s soccer team scored a late equalizer in earning a 1-1 double-overtime tie with NC State Thursday evening at UM’s Cobb Stadium.

Each team had their opportunities throughout, but all the scoring occurred late in the second half.

Miami’s Tara Schwitter tied the game at one in the 83rd minute, converting on a penalty kick after the Canes drew a foul in the 18-yard box. The goal was the fifth of the season for the sophomore.

The Wolfpacks’ Cheyene Spade scored what NC State (8-3-2, 0-3-2 ACC) had hoped would be the game-winner in the 79th minute. Kaley Shlaes was credited with the assist after her nicely placed cross.

The Hurricanes (7-3-1, 1-2-1 ACC) had goalkeeper Vikki Alonzo to thank for keeping the match scoreless early midway through the second half, as the senior spawled out to make a save of Tanya Cain’s shot. The rebound ricocheted of Alonzo and appeared on its way into the net, but UM’s all-time shutouts leader somehow swatted the ball away before it crossed the goal line.

The Canes seemed to control the tempo in the first half, but each squad’s defense held strong as the game remained scoreless at the break. Freshman Shannon Caspar recorded Miami’s lone shot on goal in the period, but was turned away by the Wolfpack’s  Kim Kern in the 32nd minute. Alonzo also played well in the opening half, stepping up with two saves of her own.

Miami will have two days off before it welcomes No. 11 North Carolina to Cobb Stadium on Sunday. The Canes have defeated the Tar Heels in each of UNC’s last two visits to Coral Gables, each by a 1-0 score.

The University of Miami is also excited to offer a new season ticket package that will include two (2) adult and (3) youth tickets to all home volleyball and soccer events in the 2011 season.  The Family plan provides a family of five with over 20 events for the incredible price of $50. To purchase a Volleyball and Soccer Family Plan call 1-800-Go Canes or buy online.