WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Sailfish of Palm Beach Atlantic University sailed to a commanding 15-3 victory over Emmanuel University on Tuesday at the PBA Soccer/Lacrosse Field. With a blistering 9-0 run in the first quarter, the 'Fish set the tempo early, marking a season-high of 15 goals and 18 ground balls.
The action started swiftly for PBA as
Annika Limpert found the net just 35 seconds in, assisted by
Bella Marchiano. Limpert's defensive prowess also shone with a season-high of 5 ground balls.
Keira Limpert followed suit at 11:22, kicking off her impressive four-goal game.
Olivia Larges added to the tally at 10:39, and
Peyton Sutton joined the party at 9:31, again assisted by Marchiano. Larges found the net again before
Skylar Splinter and
Kaitlyn Gallagher scored, with Splinter netting twice, including a free position goal. Gallagher's goal was her first of the season.
Taryn Thompson closed the quarter with a free position power play goal, leaving the Sailfish with an imposing 9-0 lead.
The 'Fish kept the momentum rolling into the second quarter, adding three more goals.
Arianna Tribble scored her first of the season at 12:23, followed by a goal from
Kayden Cilento at 9:58, assisted by Tribble. Cilento also marked her first goal of the season.
Sadie Splinter wrapped up the quarter's scoring at 2:42 with her first goal. The Sailfish defense, with key turnovers including one by
Annika Limpert, stifled Emmanuel, who missed a chance with a free position shot by Meghan Jennings. By halftime, the 'Fish were firmly in control, leading 12-0.
Emmanuel's Olivia Wallach opened the third quarter with a man-up goal at 14:00, but PBA's
Keira Limpert answered back at 12:07, assisted by
Annika Limpert. Wallach struck again for Emmanuel at 9:40, but
Keira Limpert kept the 'Fish ahead, scoring twice more at 4:56 and 1:58.
In the final quarter, the Sailfish maintained their stronghold. Emmanuel's Mikaela Austin scored on a free position shot at 8:30, but PBA's defense, anchored by goalie
Sydney Luber, stood firm. Luber, with key saves, was eventually replaced by
Meredith Shallow midway through the quarter. Despite Emmanuel's persistent efforts, the Sailfish sealed a 15-3 triumph, highlighted by 9 unassisted goals, surpassing their usual average of 5.33.
Olivia Larges led the charge with two goals from four shots on goal, while
Keira Limpert's four goals—three unassisted—boosted the 'Fish offense. In goal, Luber's performance included two crucial saves, allowing just one goal during her stint. Sutton's game-winning goal capped her three shots on goal.
With this victory, Palm Beach Atlantic improves to 3-1, while Emmanuel University stands at 3-3.
The 'Fish are back in action Thursday night as they host Lee University as they continue their seven-game home stretch.