Friday, October 18, 2002

Golden Panthers outlast Arkansas Little-Rock 2-1 in Double Overtime

Golden Goal in sudden-win overtime proved to be the difference Friday night, as the Florida International Women's Soccer team downed Arkansas-Little Rock 2-1 at University Park. The goal came off of a great individual effort by Senior Forward Nicola Bell, who slipped between two defenders and scored on a breakaway in the 106th minute.

The victory marked the first concrete evidence of a Golden Panther turnaround this season. Over the past three games, the Golden Panthers have won several statistical categories, but haven't won on the scoreboard, winning more corner kick opportunities and shots attempted than their opponents. Tonight, the improved offensive play finally netted a victory as the Golden Panthers outshot the Trojans (5-10, 1-6 in Sun Belt) 26-8 and earned 8 corner kicks as opposed to UALR's 2.

The Golden Panthers were led in goal by Freshman Lindsey Clarke, who made her first career start and who also earned her first career victory. Clarke got the start due to an injury suffered by Junior Goalkeeper Adrienne McWilliams. McWilliams sat out the game with swelling in her knee caused by a contusion. She is questionable for Sunday's game.

The Golden Goal was Bell's third of the season, and she currently leads the team with 11 points. FIU's other goal came off of a deflection from Bell to Sophomore Midfielder Charissa Gingerich. Also receiving an assist on the play was Sophomore Midfielder Janessa Taddei, who put the ball into play on a corner kick.

The Golden Panthers (2-11-1, 2-1-0 in Sun Belt) next host Arkansas State Sunday afternoon at University Park at 1:00 p.m. The game is Senior Day, and will be broadcast on Radiate 88, FIU's student radio station. The game can be heard on 88.1 FM in Miami or on the Internet at http://wrgp.fiu.edu/sports.