Women's Soccer Falls to Mercer in A-Sun Semis

Friday, November 2

Fort Myers, Fla.

4 p.m.

University of North Florida

-8102, 531 ASun

Mercer

-1343, 612 ASun

North Florida

Mercer

Photo by: ASUN Photos

11/2/2012 7:18:00 PM | Women's Soccer

Box Score

By: UNF Athletics

Photo Gallery

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- The University of North Florida women's soccer team's season came to a close on Friday afternoon as it fell to Mercer, 3-0, in the Atlantic Sun Tournament semifinals.

“It's always a difficult loss when you end the season,” Head Coach Linda Hamilton. “We didn't have our best effort today and that's something that's tough to do against a quality team like Mercer.”

As with the squads' regular-season matchup, Mercer opened the scoring in the early going. Kristen Hagaman notched her first goal of the season in just the third minute when an intended cross from 35 yards trickled just inside the far post to put Mercer up 1-0.

Though there was no further first-half scoring, the Ospreys found their footing after the goal and took the fight to the midfield. Much of the remainder of the opening period took place in the middle third, with neither team getting a great look on goal.

At the half, Mercer held an edge in shots, 7-3, though the Ospreys had put all three of their chances on frame, while the Bears had only put the opening goal on target.

After the break, Mercer struck quickly once more, as Danielle Hesse worked a quick passing combo with Lauren Gassie and Nadja Kolliesuah before depositing a close range shot into the back of the net to give the Bears a 2-0 lead in just the 48th minute.

Though the Ospreys battled back, Casey Barrett was able to seal the victory in the 72nd minute with a sterling individual effort. Barrett dribbled into the area from the right corner, beating two defenders before firing a shot just inside the near post and putting Mercer ahead, 3-0.

UNF tallied five shots in the final 21 minutes, including a powerful volley from senior Sadie McLean that was denied by the post, but could not put in a goal. For the match, Mercer took 15 shots, but only five were put on target. The Ospreys put six of their 12 chances on frame, forcing six saves out of Maggie Cropp on the day. Senior Brittany Hahn made two saves for UNF on the day.

“I'm very proud of everything this team overcame and accomplished this season,” Hamilton said. “They have nothing to hang their head about. I'm especially thankful for our seniors that gave us four great years and provided such outstanding leadership this season.”

The Ospreys will end their 2012 campaign with an 8-10-2 overall record, including a 5-3-1 mark in A-Sun play. This was their second consecutive trip to the semifinals of the A-Sun Tournament.