PINE BLUFF, AR – The Lady Lions broke their three-game overtime losing streak tonight versus the Delta Devilettes of Mississippi Valley State University.
The Lady Lions came out to play with intensity and that intensity paid off in the first minute of play. Junior forward Nicole Parks-Powell played the ball to fellow junior forward, Silvia Fuentes, who played the ball into the box. Sophomore midfielder Taryn Wright was there for the rebound off MVSU goalkeeper Shelby Willcocks and blasted the ball into the back of net.
UAPB played most of the first half in the MVSU defensive end and had many chances to extend the lead past 1-0. The first half shot tally was a lopsided 10-3 for the Lady Lions.
“We had a very good first half but this was just one of those games where we did not capitalize on our opportunities. This kept Valley in the game with us,” said Coach Mazza.
The Lady Lions continued to press hard on the Delta Devilettes but still could not find glory. MVSU was able to get on the scoreboard at the 51st minute from a set piece off the foot of Delta Devilette Bianca Vigilante.
The second half ended with the game tied at 1-1 and with UAPB out-shooting MVSU eight shots to three. This would bring the Lady Lions into their fourth overtime this season.
In dramatic fashion, UAPB finished the game in the first minute and 30 seconds of overtime. Junior midfielder Rachel Harker played a perfect ball to space for senior forward Daphnee Cadet to run on to. Cadet sprinted past the MVSU defender and struck the ball to the bottom left of the Devilettes goal. This marked the Lady Lions first overtime win this season.
“The girls showed a lot of character tonight and a lot of patience. Tonight's game was that kind of game where frustrations could hinder us. It was resilience and good character that got us the “W” tonight. I am very proud of my team,” said Coach Mazza.
This win tonight extended the Lady Lions' SWAC record to 5-0 and their overall record to 10-5-0.
The Lady Lions play at home Sunday afternoon at 1PM versus the Lady Braves of Alcorn State University.
