Miami, Fla. - Stetson (2-2-0, 0-0-0) battled back from a two goal deficit against Florida International (2-1-1, 0-0-0) at FIU Soccer Stadium before falling on a penalty shot goal in the 87th minute Thursday evening. 

The first half was highlighted by a standout performance from goalkeeper Clare Boesel, who made several key stops — including a critical save in the 27th minute on a top-corner shot from FIU's Hanako Fujii. Offensively, the Hatters had chances of their own, including shots from Brooke Voorhees and Anna Voigt, but it was FIU who broke through first. Montelene Dymond gave the Panthers a 1-0 lead in the 35th minute, a scoreline that held into halftime.

The second half began with FIU extending their lead in the 47th minute with a goal from Dymond, assisted by Grace Morris. The Hatters responded quickly when Payton Quinones found the back of the net in the 48th minute with an assist from Bryn Forchic, closing the gap to 2-1. The momentum continued for the Hatters as Ava Kooker scored in the 63rd minute to level the score at 2-2.

Despite the comeback, FIU secured the win in the 85th minute with a penalty kick converted by Delfina Lombardi.

Boesel finished with six saves—three in each half. Quinones led the offense with one goal on two shots, while Forchic added an assist. Kooker made the most of her opportunity, scoring on her lone shot on goal.

Stetson now turns its attention to a road matchup against The Citadel, scheduled for August 31 at 4 p.m. in Charleston, S.C.