The Bucs played in their second game of the season at home on Sunday, Aug. 25. The Bucs lost in overtime 1-0, giving them an overall record of 1-1.
“We attempted to take the game to them by playing in the wide areas and the space behind them, and we had a lot of success doing that,” says head coach Adam Sayer. “We created a lot of chances; it just wouldn’t go in for us today.”
The first half of the game was left scoreless as the both teams fought to keep possession. The Bucs outshot the Bulldogs 6-5, forcing only one save per keeper in the first 45 minutes.
“Defensively overall, it was interesting because it was two very different styles and very different approaches to the game,” said Sayers.
The second half proved more active as both teams took chances to gain their spot on the scoreboard. The Bucs had three shots on goal forcing saves out of the Bulldog keeper. The Bulldogs took their chance, but missed as the shot hit the top of the net.
The second half remained scoreless, resulting in overtime. Both teams prepared for their last opportunity to find themselves on the scoreboard as overtime was about to start.
“Defensively they had a lot of number in central midfield, so it was a case of dealing with those runner from central areas, which we did well for a lot of the game,” said Sayers.
The Bulldogs found themselves in Buc territory as they fought to keep possession. Buc defenders gathered around the goal in attempts to stop the bulldogs, but despite efforts, the ball hit the back of the Bucs’ net giving the Bulldogs the win.
“We’re just going to keep working on our values and principles of play and improve those,” says Sanders.
Junior Sarah Connolly (Bollygowan, Northern Ireland) led with five shots, helping the Bucs outshoot the Bulldogs by a 13-12 margin.
The Bucs return home Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. to face USC Upstate.
