Top-Seeded Argos Knock Lee Women’s Soccer Out of GSC Tournament

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Lee University’s journey in the Gulf South Conference Women’s Soccer Championship came to an end in the semifinal round at the John Hunt Soccer Complex on Friday night. The Lady Flames faced a tough challenge against top-seeded University of West Florida, who showcased a fast and physical attack resulting in a 3-0 loss for Lee. This was only the second time this season that Lee had conceded three goals.

With this victory, the Argonauts (13-1-3) secured their spot in the championship round.

West Florida limited Lee to just three shots in the first half and took a 1-0 lead. The opening goal came at the 34:36 mark when Gabriel Clarke delivered a precise cross from the left side, setting up Mya Swinton for a powerful header into the bottom right corner of the net.

The second goal for West Florida came at 62:57 in the second half, with Emma Beltz scoring with her left foot from outside the box into the right corner. Julieta Limardo provided the assist for this goal.

The final goal for the Argonauts was scored at 77:27, as Limardo executed a one-on-one move, dribbled past Lee’s keeper Abby Whitcomb, and tapped the ball into the net. Kaylyn Larsen was credited with the assist.

While Lee only managed three shots in the first half, they finished the game with 12 shots, five of which were on target. Ashley Eulo had one shot on goal, Kassidy Kellett had three shots with one on target, Grace Berry was successful in her one shot on target. Isabella Valentine had three shots with one on goal, Jordan Blair fired two shots with one on target, and Alaysia Nye and Sydnee Duncan had the other shots for the Lady Flames.

On the other hand, West Florida recorded 14 shots with 10 on target. Lee’s goalkeeper Abby Whitcomb made seven saves and suffered the loss, while West Florida’s Maciah Lipsey had five saves in the shutout and secured the victory.

Despite the physical nature of the game, with only two corner kicks throughout the 90 minutes, both taken by West Florida, the Argonauts were called for 10 fouls compared to Lee’s nine. Additionally, West Florida received three yellow cards while Lee received one.

Coach Lee Hughes shared his thoughts after the match, stating, “We had the same chances they did. The difference tonight was that they put theirs in the back of the net and we didn’t. Cannot fault the girls for the effort, they were gritty and gave it their all.”