WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – The most successful season in USCB women's soccer history came to a close Tuesday, as the Sand Sharks dropped a tough 3-1 decision to top-seeded and third-ranked Keiser in the semifinals of the Sun Conference Tournament. 

The loss ends a season in which the Sand Sharks set single-season program records for wins (10), goals scored (40), and fewest goals allowed (34), and earned the first postseason victory in program history.

The Seahawks jumped out to an early lead when Sara Lundberg finished a cross from Filippa Millqvist just 12 minutes into the match. The Sand Sharks answered in the 27th minute, as Anna Gignilliat slipped a pass through the defense for Brooke Newman, who finished with a shot past the diving Keiser goalkeeper. 

USCB couldn't maintain the momentum, though, as Millqvist slid a shot inside the left post just two minutes later for what proved to be the game-winner. The Sand Sharks had a chance to find the equalizer late in the first half, but a strong slide tackle from Olivia White shut down the threat and led to another Millqvist goal at the other end with less than six minutes remaining in the half.

"We were able to fight back after falling behind 1-0, and we continued to pressure and create chances after we were down 3-1," USCB coach Ed Heberling said. "We have done that all year, and it shows the maturity and perseverance this group had this season."

The Sand Sharks were able to keep the Seahawks off the board in the second half, but they couldn't pull back another goal. 

The match was the last for eight Sand Shark seniors – Poppy Miller, Brittany Pacifico, Sam Satterlee, Caroline Bowman, Bridgette Noonan, Brittany Lorentz, Taylor Superior, and Cameron Croney-Clark.

"Our seniors did a wonderful job this season leading the program to new heights and expectations," Heberling said. "Their efforts and commitment have set a new standard for Sand Shark soccer. They have left this program better than they found it, and we will continue to get better because of them." 

BOJANGLES' PLAYER OF THE GAME
Brooke Newman
Freshman • Forward • Pompano Beach, Fla.

Newman sparked the Sand Sharks' attack, scoring the equalizer less than five minutes after coming off the bench and producing several more opportunities throughout the match.