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The 20th ranked Florida soccer team wins its second straight game after beating 11th ranked Tennessee 2-1 on Sunday. The game was also the second straight match for the Gators where the opponent was in the top-12. Florida has won three straight games in Knoxville dating back to 2013 and the Gators now sit at 18-8-3 all-time against the Volunteers.
https://twitter.com/GatorsSoccer/status/922181642759868422
Composed Heroics
The Gators did a good job of maintaining possession against the Vols. However, the first half lacked efficiency as both sides managed 11 shots without results. No corners or bookings in the first half meant that it was all or nothing in the second half. Florida nearly scored off a bicycle kick, but the effort was comfortably stopped by Vols goalkeeper Parker Roberts.
Florida Head Coach Becky Burleigh described Parker Roberts’ bicycle kick save as “pretty amazing” as the first half remained goalless.” Burleigh emphasizes how bicycle kicks are a usual topic during practice
Junior Sarah Troccoli scored in the 55th minute to give the Gators a 1-0 lead. Two goals this season in two games helped result in two necessary wins for Florida. Deanne Rose picked up an assist after a short pass from the edge of the box.
Anna Bialczak headed in the equalizer for Tennessee off a long free kick shortly after in the 63rd minute. Florida would get the winning goal after Briana Solis won the ball within the opposing half. Solis passed the ball to Madison Alexander who would return the favor when Solis scored from 15 yards out on the return pass.
What’s Next?
Florida will finish off the regular season against third ranked South Carolina before starting postseason play in the SEC Tournament. The Gamecocks have only lost one game this season (13-1, 8-0) and are undefeated at home. However, South Carolina is on the road as they travel to Gainesville to take on a Gators team who have only lost once at home. If the Gators were to win, Texas A&M can jump into first in the SEC on the last day of the regular season with a win.
