UK Women's Soccer Falls 2-1 to No. 15 USF
The University of Kentucky Women’s Soccer team dropped a close 2-1 game to the No. 15 University of South Florida Bulls on Sunday in Tampa. It was the Wildcats’ first match against a ranked opponent this season.
The two teams battled closely in the first half. Kentucky’s defense held strong throughout several solid offensive looks from the Bulls, keeping the score tied at zero.
The Bulls were awarded a penalty kick in the 27th minute after a Wildcat foul in the box. USF junior Sydny Nasello made two PK’s in her last two games, but her success ran out this afternoon. She was denied by Wildcat goalkeeper Laura Nielsen.
Kentucky’s Jordyn Rhodes got a chance to give the ‘Cats the lead with a PK in the 42nd minute, but her shot was blocked by the Bull goalkeeper. Freshman defender Sara Makoben-Blessing found the deflection, though, and gave Kentucky a 1-0 lead heading into halftime. It was the first goal of her career.
The 53rd minute brought a bit of drama after USF Chyanne Dennis was awarded a red card, leaving the Bulls down a player for the remainder of the game. Unfortunately, the ‘Cats couldn’t take advantage offensively.
The Bulls maintained possession most of the second half. Nasello got her revenge for the missed PK in the 81st minute, evening the score at 1-1. Just four minutes later, USF’s Vivianne Bessette scored again, giving the Bulls the lead.
USF had a clear offensive advantage in the match. The Bulls took 20 shots in the game, as opposed to only three from the ‘Cats. Defense was good, though–especially from the freshman goalkeeper who ended with a career-high seven saves.
The ‘Cats have plenty of returning talent this year. Junior Jordyn Rhodes had a really impressive sophomore season where she lead the SEC in shots per game (3.78), goals (10), goals per game (1.11), points (21), and points per game (2.33). She was named All-SEC First Team for her efforts.
She is joined by several other offensive threats including Hannah Richardson and Julia Grosso, both of whom have shown their ability to find the back of the net.
Following today’s loss, the ‘Cats are now 2-1-1 on the season. They will host the Dayton Flyers on Thursday at 7 p.m.
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