BLUFFTON, S.C. – The USCB women's soccer team collected a hard-earned point Thursday, playing to a 1-1 draw with rival SCAD Savannah in a key Sun Conference matchup at Fin Land Field.

Taylor Superior scored the Sand Sharks' lone goal just two minutes after the Bees had opened the scoring in the 55th minute, and both teams failed to capitalize on scoring chances in the final minutes of regulation and overtime before settling for a point apiece. 

"Another great performance by our defense tonight, as they ended numerous attacks and kept us in the match," USCB coach Ed Heberling said. "They have grown and improved greatly since the start of conference play. Their strong play allowed us to counter and create numerous opportunities."

The defenses dominated the first half, as neither team generated many scoring opportunities. The attacks came to life after halftime, though, and Mikaela Heyboer ran onto a bouncing ball in the box and headed it past Moa Johansson to break the deadlock just more than nine minutes into the second half. 

The Sand Sharks (7-6-2, 3-2-2 TSC) answered just over two minutes later, when Hayley Pina made a powerful run up the left flank and played a cross from the end line that Superior was able to finish for the equalizer. 

Both teams had chances to end the match in extra time but narrowly missed netting the game-winner. SCAD's Annie Sullivan had a shot roll just wide in the final seconds of the first overtime period, and the Sand Sharks uncorked six shots in the second extra period. The best opportunity came with less than five minutes remaining, when MJ Orduna played Superior through for a one-on-one, but SCAD goalkeeper Ande Eich made a diving stop and Superior misfired on the follow-up. 

"Unfortunately we weren't able to put away some quality chances late in the match, but our intensity and determination tonight was noticeable and needed," Heberling said. "If we can continue to play at that same level each game, we will continue to find success." 

The Sand Sharks remain in fifth place in the Sun Conference standings with 11 points, one behind Thomas and Southeastern. Thomas will visit Fin Land Field at 2 p.m. Saturday as USCB celebrates Homecoming and Senior Day. 

BOJANGLES' PLAYER OF THE GAME
MJ Orduna
Junior • Midfielder • Jacksonville, Fla.

Orduna was terrific in the midfield for the Sand Sharks, helping control possession and facilitate the attack. One of her numerous beautiful passes nearly resulted in the game-winner when she played Taylor Superior into space for a one-on-one chance in the second overtime period.