RICHMOND HILL, Ga. — The University of South Carolina Beaufort women's soccer team staged a furious second-half rally but came up just short in a 3-2 loss to Truett-McConnell (Ga.) on Saturday at DeVaul Henderson Park. 

The Sand Sharks managed only one shot in the first half as the Bears took a 2-0 lead on goals by Paige Williams and Jo Cook. USCB turned around its play dramatically in the second half, creating numerous opportunities with an aggressive attack. 

The Bears made it a 3-0 when Brooke Reed's header converted a free kick from Carson Bayte in the 60th minute, but the Sand Sharks came charging back. 

Alexa Muffley blasted a long shot for her school-record 12th career goal in the 70th minute, and Alexandria Radue scored off an assist from Karen Pimentel less than seven minutes later to pull USCB within one. 

The Sand Sharks had several chances to tie it, including a couple near-misses from Pimentel, but were unable to deliver the equalizer.

"Finally, the team found their passion and energy and played a great second half," Heberling said. "The team fed off each other and worked so hard, and they could see the outcome. If we can take that second half into the rest of our season we will find the win column many more times." 

The Sand Sharks also solidified defensively in the second half after mistakes in the defensive third led to the two early goals. Senior Pascale Rocca took over in goal in the second half – her first time playing the position at the collegiate level – and stopped three of four shots on goal. Freshman Randi Anzek made five saves on seven shots on goal in the first half.

"The team came together and fought after halftime," Heberling said. "Pascale stepped up huge in goal and communicated well and was able to clear the ball and start some great counter attacks."

USCB will host Tennessee Wesleyan at noon Monday. If Fin Land Field is unplayable, the game will again be played at DeVaul Henderson Park.