WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Palm Beach Atlantic fell to No. 2 Florida Southern 16–4 on Wednesday at PBA Soccer Lacrosse Field. Despite the loss, the Sailfish managed to convert 10 of their 16 shots on goal.
The match commenced with Palm Beach Atlantic showing resilience early on, as
Skylar Splinter caused a turnover and secured a ground ball, setting the stage for the 'Fish's attack. Despite two missed shots by
Arianna Tribble and
Olivia Larges, the Sailfish maintained pressure, with
Keira Limpert scoring a goal assisted by
Izzy King at the 7:30 mark to keep the team within reach.
Florida Southern responded with a series of goals, extending its lead, but Palm Beach Atlantic's Limpert struck again with assistance from
Annika Limpert at 2:34, narrowing the deficit. The quarter closed with the Sailfish trailing 5–2.
In the second quarter, Palm Beach Atlantic made a late push to narrow Florida Southern's lead. Larges scored with assistance from
Bella Marchiano at the 3:41 mark, shifting momentum in the Sailfish's favor. With just 15 seconds remaining,
Aubrey Kenton, assisted by
Kaitlyn Gallagher, added another goal to bolster the home team's efforts. The quarter concluded with Florida Southern ahead, 8–4.
A pivotal turnover caused by
Taryn Thompson at 14:03 allowed the Sailfish to gain possession early in the third quarter, which was quickly followed by a clean ground ball pickup and successful clear. Despite this promising start, the 'Fish struggled to convert opportunities into goals, with shots by Limpert and Larges being saved or missing the target. Meanwhile, Florida Southern capitalized on its chances, scoring four times in the quarter, including goals from Hanna Watson and Louise Aloi. The quarter ended with Palm Beach Atlantic trailing 12–4.
Palm Beach Atlantic's defense made an early impact in the fourth quarter as
Georgia Karns saved a free position shot from Florida Southern's Maycie Neubauer at 13:15, followed by a successful ground ball pickup. Despite these defensive efforts, Florida Southern's offense gained momentum, scoring multiple goals, including a free position goal by Isabella Bright at 5:29, prompting a timeout from Palm Beach Atlantic.
The 'Fish attempted to counter with offensive plays, including a shot by Larges that was saved by Florida Southern's goalkeeper. However, turnovers hindered their progress. Florida Southern maintained control, adding to its lead. The game concluded with Florida Southern winning 16–4.
Keira Limpert led the Sailfish with two goals on five shots, showcasing her scoring ability.
Olivia Larges contributed with one goal and three shots on target, providing key moments in the attack.
Georgia Karns made seven saves, playing a crucial role in goal, despite facing 29 shots.
Aubrey Kenton added to the scoreboard with a goal from two attempts, demonstrating her effectiveness in limited opportunities.
Palm Beach Atlantic ends their season with a record of 6-10. Florida Southern goes into SSC Playoffs with a record of 15-1 and is ranked No. 2 nationally.
