WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Sailfish (4-2) faced a tough match against the University of Alabama in Huntsville (4-6), falling 14–6 at PBA SoccerLacrosse Field on Saturday. Despite the outcome, PBA showcased their prowess by winning the draw control battle 15–7.
Alabama Huntsville jumped to an early lead in the first quarter, capitalizing on turnovers from the 'Fish. UAH's Noelle Coleman opened the scoring at 8:35, with an assist from Olivia Rewers after a series of ground ball recoveries. PBA answered back with a player-up goal from
Annika Limpert, assisted by
Kaitlyn Gallagher, at 4:25. However, UAH kept the upper hand with a goal from Sarah Cole, ending the quarter with a 2–1 lead despite
Georgia Karns' key saves for the 'Fish.
In the second quarter, PBA turned the tide, outscoring Alabama Huntsville 4–2.
Taryn Thompson kicked off the scoring at 13:38, taking advantage of an Alabama Huntsville turnover.
Peyton Sutton made a strong impact with two goals, including one at 7:27 assisted by Limpert, marking her second straight game with at least two goals. Sutton's three draw controls helped sustain the offensive momentum. Even with a goal from Alabama Huntsville's Lauren Pfleger at 10:45, PBA pulled ahead, closing the quarter 5–4.
The third quarter proved challenging for PBA as Alabama Huntsville capitalized on turnovers to score five unanswered goals. Despite securing several draw controls, the 'Fish struggled to hold possession, committing five turnovers that stalled their offense. Alabama Huntsville's Olivia Rewers and Ella Rutherford added key goals, with Rutherford scoring twice, including a player-up goal and a free position shot. The quarter concluded with Alabama Huntsville leading 9–5.
Alabama Huntsville continued to capitalize on free position opportunities in the final quarter, netting three goals including a crucial score by Corinne Baker at 13:02. The 'Fish battled with turnovers, which Alabama Huntsville turned into successful player-up goals. Despite a late goal from
Keira Limpert at 5:42 and strong draw efforts by
Sadie Splinter, PBA was outscored 5–1, ending the game with a 14–6 deficit.
Keira Limpert made her mark with two goals, including one unassisted, bolstering the 'Fish offense. Sutton also found the net twice, scoring with precision on four attempts.
Annika Limpert contributed significantly with one goal and a season-high of two assists, keeping pressure on the opposition's defense.
Georgia Karns stood tall in goal with eight saves, facing 27 shots to anchor the 'Fish defense.