MELBOURNE, Fla. — The Sailfish of Palm Beach Atlantic (6-4, 0-1) faced off against Florida Tech (4-6, 1-0) on Wednesday at Rick Stottler Field and concluded the match with a 19-8 setback. The 'Fish showcased their knack for taking advantage of player-up situations, netting three goals under those conditions. Despite the scoreline, the Sailfish defense stood up to a season-high 39 shots, demonstrating resilience throughout the contest.

The match kicked off with the 'Fish snagging the first draw control, setting the tone for their offensive drives. Keira Limpert opened the scoring at 13:50, converting a player-up chance with an assist from Annika Limpert, giving PBA an early edge.

However, Florida Tech countered with a series of goals, taking the lead. PBA's Peyton Sutton found the back of the net at 3:45, cutting the deficit. The first period wrapped with the Sailfish trailing 5-2.

In the second quarter, Sutton struck again at 13:04, closing the gap. Keira Limpert added another crucial player-up goal at 6:34, assisted by Kaitlyn Gallagher, who has now tallied at least two assists in three consecutive games. With a mere 18 seconds left, Olivia Larges scored, again with help from Gallagher, keeping the 'Fish in the fight as the half ended 11-5 in Florida Tech's favor.

The third quarter presented challenges for Palm Beach Atl., as Florida Tech extended their lead. Early on, Taryn Thompson secured a draw control but was soon sidelined with a yellow card, affecting the team's pace. Despite defensive efforts, including key saves by Meredith Shallow, the Sailfish struggled to transform possession into points on the board.

Florida Tech capitalized on their chances, with goals from Gillian Craig and Abby Cudzilo. The 'Fish's attempts to clear the ball were often thwarted by turnovers, as Florida Tech kept control. The quarter ended with Florida Tech in a commanding position, and the period closed at 17-5.

In the fourth, Palm Beach Atlantic came out strong. Izzy King took advantage of a player-up opportunity at 13:06, narrowing the lead. Soon after, Alex Sutch found the net with an assist from Bella Marchiano at 9:51. Skylar Splinter added to the tally at 6:07, showcasing the 'Fish's offensive prowess in the final stretch. On defense, Jalona Mundo was instrumental, scooping up a season-high three ground balls.

Despite their spirited efforts, Florida Tech answered back with a goal from Sofie Bender at 3:47 and another in the final minute, securing their lead. The game wrapped up with PBA's determined effort falling short, finishing with a 19-8 scoreline in favor of Florida Tech.

Leading the charge for the Sailfish was Keira Limpert with two goals, converting three of her four shots on target. Peyton Sutton also made her mark with two goals from four on-target shots. Bella Marchiano provided an assist, while Olivia Larges made her single shot count with a goal. On defense, Meredith Shallow put in a solid performance with seven saves.

The 'Fish return to action on Saturday as they come back to West Palm Beach to host the Embry-Riddle Golden Eagles.