TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — South Alabama’s first NCAA Tournament appearance ended Friday night with a 5-0 loss to top-ranked Florida State in the first round.
A Program-Best Season
South Alabama finished 14-6-3 in the most successful season in program history. The Jaguars won their first Sun Belt Conference Tournament title and made their first NCAA Tournament appearance, and their 14 wins are the second-most in school history.
Seniors Clarissa Hernandez, Jess Oram and Shelby Owen each made their 84th career start, extending their school records for games played.
Seminoles Strike Early
Florida State (19-1-3) scored in the ninth minute and led 3-0 at halftime. The Seminoles added a fourth goal just over a minute into the second half on the way to the 5-0 final. Florida State outshot South Alabama 20-3.
The Seminoles advance to the second round in their 14th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
Winkworth Praises Effort
“I’m really proud of the girls tonight,” first-year head coach Graham Winkworth said. “They have worked extremely hard. I think we came out a little shaky and, unfortunately, conceded some early goals with all the nerves. This is the first time that our program has been in this situation, so it’s understandable to have those nerves.”
Winkworth also complimented the Seminoles. “What I enjoy most and respect the most about Florida State is that they are a very well-coached team,” he said. “They are class acts on the field as well. They are top-class players that are clearly experienced, but what makes me like Florida State over a lot of teams in the ACC is just the style of soccer they play.”
Senior Class Closes Careers
The match was the last for 10 South Alabama seniors:
- Lauren Arnold
- Stacie Bevens
- Melissa Drish
- Lizzie Goldsmith
- Clarissa Hernandez
- Morgan Motes
- Jess Oram
- Shelby Owen
- Tatum Perry
- Lindsey Snavely
