“We have to be able to move the ball better.”
That was Red Flash head women’s soccer coach Brian Diaz’s perspective following his team’s 2-1 loss to NEC rival Howard on Thursday afternoon.
Coming off a 3-0 win at Delaware State on Sept. 29, SFU (4-6-2, 2-2 NEC) was looking to keep its momentum going against the Bison (4-4-4, 2-1 NEC), but Howard’s physical style of play wore down the Flash over 90 minutes.
The Flash led 1-0 at the half on a goal by senior midfielder Lauren Pyle. The Red Flash leader in goals and points, she scored a penalty kick in the 41st minute to put SFU up 1-0. It was her fourth goal of the season.
The home team’s lead was erased less than two minutes into the second half, however, when Howard’s Melea Earley scored to tie the match, 1-1.
The Flash had several good chances to reclaim the lead in the first 20 minutes of the second half but failed to capitalize.
In the 77th minute, Howard’s Gabriella Garcia-Terrell – who landed NEC’s Rookie-of-the-Week honors last Monday – scored her third goal of the season.
It proved to be the game-winner.
“We defended more than we wanted too,” said Diaz.
The Bison outshot the Flash, 12-4.
Howard goalkeeper Trinity Knox made three saves, while SFU’s keeper Emma Sawich saved two shots.
The Flash are off for a week. SFU returns to action on Oct. 10, hosting FDU in a match that begins at 3 p.m.
