COLUMBIA, S.C. – The USCB women's soccer team watched another strong performance turn into a heart-breaking defeat Wednesday, as the visiting Sand Sharks dominated Columbia College but suffered a 2-1 defeat.

The Koalas scored two first-half goals – the second on a penalty kick – and were able to hold off USCB's second-half rally. Brittney Neser scored the lone goal for the Sand Sharks on an assist from Hayley Pina, who tied the school record with her 11th career assist.

"We came out strong again tonight and controlled the play of the entire match," USCB coach Ed Heberling said. "Columbia finished their two chances in the first half and put us in a deficit."

The Koalas scored an early goal and added the penalty in the 42nd minute, but USCB rallied after the break and maintained the pressure. Neser broke through in the 69th minute, drilling a shot from the 18-yard line for her first goal of the season. 

"We came out even more determined in the second half and continued to create chances," Heberling said. "Neser got a drop from Pina that she buried in the side netting, which sparked the team to life a bit more." 

The Sand Sharks were unable to find the equalizer, though, despite several opportunities. The Koalas turned away numerous corner kicks and a Pina free kick, and Poppy Miller just missed putting away a rebound late in the match. 

"This game can be cruel," Heberling said. "We have been on the wrong side of a few games that we have controlled. We will get better and come out more determined." 

The Sand Sharks return to Columbia on Saturday to face Columbia International for a 5 p.m. kickoff. 

BOJANGLES' PLAYER OF THE GAME
Brittney Neser
Sophomore • Midfielder • John's Creek, Ga.

Neser was a force in the Sand Sharks' midfield and scored USCB's lone goal of the night – the first of her collegiate career.