Hurricanes Fall 1-0 to Bulls
TAMPA — After opening its season with an impressive victory over No. 21 Florida, Miami fell to USF 1-0 on Sunday afternoon at Corbett Soccer Stadium.
In a game that was delayed nearly two hours due to lightning, the Hurricanes were blanked by a USF defense that bent but did not break. While the Bulls’ only shot on goal found its way to the back of the net, Miami was unable to convert despite outshooting their opponents 12-9. USF goalkeeper Christiane Endler (1-1-0, 0-0 BIG EAST) was forced to make six stops on the day to preserve her team’s win.
“The game we play is about which team is willing to do more. It’s about desire and intensity,” head coach Tom Anagnost said. “It’s about which team wants it more, and is more disciplined and committed to the cause. Today, the opponent was that team.”
An errant pass out of the Hurricanes’ backline was picked off by the Bulls’ Sharla Passariello in the 51st minute, and the junior’s shot from just outside the box made its way past sophomore goalkeeper Emily Lillard for the decisive 1-0 lead.
Miami (1-1-0, 0-0 ACC) would not relent on offense, however, finishing with 12 shots and multiple opportunities to even the score. Junior forward Jesse Shugg (four shots) led the team’s attack up front, creating numerous opportunities that sailed just wide of the net.
The Hurricanes, who were dominant on set pieces in their opener in Gainesville, had eight cornerkicks but were unable to convert. Endler made multiple impressive stops towards the end of the game to maintain USF’s one-goal advantage.
“Only a few of our players were ready to compete today, and I’m very disappointed,” Coach Anagnost added.
The team opens its home schedule on Fri., Aug. 24 with a 6 p.m. start against visiting Morehead State.
For just $50, secure a ticket to every home Hurricane Soccer and Volleyball match. Season tickets to the home soccer schedule at Cobb Stadium can be purchased for $35, with single match tickets available for as low as $3. Call 1-800-GO-CANES to order your tickets today!
