EVANS, Ga. - An early first half goal was enough as top-seeded and third-ranked Flagler defeated fourth-seeded Columbus State University in the Peach Belt Conference Tournament Semifinals on Friday. The match took place at Blanchard Woods Park in Evans, Ga.
The Lady Cougars (13-7-0) will now await to see if they earn an at-large selection into the NCAA Tournament. The selection show will be held on Monday, Nov. 18 at 6 p.m.
"Flagler is a well-coached club, and there is a reason why they haven't lost a match this season," commented head coach Jay Entlich. "We still had our chances in this one, but that's how this game goes sometimes."
It wasn't long until Flagler (18-0-1) put the pressure on the Lady Cougars. After earning a corner kick in the 13th minute, Chloe Byrne put the ball into a dangerous spot in the box the Lady Cougars couldn't fully clear. The ball was played back where Annie Habeeb was able to get her head on it. After hitting the right post, the ball rolled over the goalline.Â
Columbus State quickly went on the attack looking for the equalizer. Riley Clark fired off a shot that had to be saved in the 17th minute while Flo Spano nearly had the match tied in the 26th minute.Â
In the second half, Flagler nearly went ahead by two, but CSU goalkeeper Bria Riancho made two huge saves for the Lady Cougars in the 58th minute.
Spano had two more quality looks at the goal in the 67th and 71st minute. However, Sarah-Lisa Dubel was there to keep the Saints ahead.
Columbus State's final shot attempt on goal was in the 76th minute by Tehgan Anguilm. CSU went all out for the goal sending Riancho upfield late but was unable to find the equalizer.
Flagler held an 18-16 shot advantage while CSU took 11 corner kicks. Riancho made seven saves for the Lady Cougars.
Match Notes
• The loss snaps Columbus State's nine-match winning streak.
• It's the first time since 2013 that CSU won't compete in the PBC Tournament Championship match.
• The seven saves were a season-high for Bria Riancho.
