DeLand, Fla. - The Stetson women's soccer team did something no other team has been able to do this season against Florida State; it held the Seminoles scoreless in the first half. The Hatters also held the 5th ranked team in the nation to three goals in the game.
Against Jacksonville University FSU scored its first goal 6 minutes and 19 seconds into the game and went on to defeat the Dolphins 7-0. Against South Alabama the Seminoles scored in the 11th minute of the game and then won by a score of 8-0.
Sunday against Stetson, Florida State was not able to tally its first goal until the second minute of the second half, and then went on to a 3-0 win over the home team.
Stetson goalkeeper Andrea Garavaglia (Webster Groves, Mo.) was spectacular in goal, particularly in the first half when she faced 10 shots and made four athletic saves. Overall in the game she saw 25 shots come her way and made eight saves.
"Andi played very well in goal today", said Stetson head coach Julie Orlowski. "Cassie (Corbyons) once again played well as we increased her minutes, and Hermie (Alexis Hermosa) played at the high level we have come to expect from her."
Other than Garavaglia in goal, Hermosa was the only Hatter to play all 90 minutes in the intense Florida heat.
Stetson had a couple of solid scoring opportunities on the afternoon. The best chance came late in the first half when Hermosa (Orlando, Fla.) booted a free kick deep into the box to what seemed to be an open Tessa Gavilsky (Granite City, Ill.). Gavilsky, however was knocked to the turf before the ball reached her. No whistles sounded on the play. Earlier in the half Gavilsky had a reasonably open chance from 20 yards that ended up going high over the net.
"We had two excellent looks at goal. If one of those goes in the game would have taken on a different shape", said Orlowski.
As it turned out the Seminoles could be held scoreless for only so long. Tiffany McCarty (Laurel, Md.) scored a goal that was sandwiched by a pair of tallies by Jessica Price (Libertyville, Ill.). Price's second was a very impressive header to the lower right corner from inside the box.
"Coming in we knew this would be a tough game. Our goal was to play in 15 minute increments and try and win each one", said Orlowski. "I am very pleased how we executed our game plan and worked hard for each other. We showed team cohesiveness and support for each other."
"This effort against a very good team is going to benefit us later in the season", she added.
Next up for the Hatters is the Embassy Suites Kickoff Classic hosted by FGCU in Fort Myers. Stetson will play West Point (Army) on Friday at 4:30 p.m. and Tennessee-Martin on Sunday at 11:00 a.m.
"Both teams are conference champions and played in the NCAA Tournament. We will need to play with intensity", said Orlowski.
