Soccer Fights Back, Falls to No. 2 UVA 3-1
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Facing a 2-0 halftime deficit, the Miami Hurricanes women’s soccer team fought back but ultimately fell to No. 2 Virginia 3-1 at Klockner Stadium.
A second-half goal from Natalie Moik – her first as a Hurricane – cut Virginia’s lead to 2-1 in the 60th minute. But the unbeaten Cavaliers (9-0-0) held on for the win despite Miami’s impressive comeback attempt.
“I am really proud of our team,” head coach Mary-Frances Monroe said. “We stuck to our plan today and I am really proud of them for their commitment, dedication and discipline.”
Miami found itself trailing on a goal from Virginia’s Kristen McNabb in the 16th minute, and the Cavaliers doubled their advantage on a strike from Olivia Hazelrigg just a few moments before the halftime whistle.
The Hurricanes (2-7) remained concentrated on their plan of attack, however, and cut into the lead with Moik’s strike in the early stages of the second period.
“It’s tough when you’re down 1-0 and with 13 seconds left in the half, you allow them to score,” Monroe said. “It showed a lot of pride and commitment to fight as a team going into the second half.”
Moik – who transferred to UM from VCU prior to this season – scored off an assist from senior Maddie Simms.
Monroe credited the goal with energizing her team for the remainder of the match.
“Natalie did a great job keeping composure and reaching that ball,” Monroe said. “She struck it well, and it ended up in the back of the net. It built up our energy for the rest of the game.”
A goal from Virginia’s Makenzy Doniak made it 3-1 in the 65th minute.
“We played a great team tonight, and I felt like we tried to disrupt them and create scoring chances for ourselves,” Monroe said. “We broke through a few times and were dangerous.”
Among Miami’s other top contributors were junior Jasmine Paterson and goalkeeper Emily Lillard, who made three saves.
“Jasmine played very well tonight, and I am very proud of her,” Monroe said. “Emily came up with some big saves. We were missing that in the beginning of the season.”
After three matches on the road, Miami’s next contest is a Sept. 25 showdown against Syracuse at Cobb Stadium. Kickoff for the match is set for 7 p.m.
