Miami Hurricanes Rally Past Lipscomb 3-2 in Season Opener Thriller
Three different goal scorers power Hurricanes to comeback victory as Bisons' early season struggles continue
CORAL GABLES, FL β The University of Miami Hurricanes opened their 2025 campaign in dramatic fashion, overcoming an early deficit to defeat Lipscomb University 3-2 at Home Stadium on Thursday evening, spoiling what could have been a breakthrough result for the visiting Bisons.
The match showcased contrasting fortunes between two programs heading in different directions. Miami, eager to build momentum in their season opener, faced a Lipscomb squad still searching for their first victory after opening the season with three draws and now their first loss.
The Hurricanes' attacking prowess was evident from the opening whistle, as they peppered the Lipscomb goal with 16 shots compared to just four from the visitors. However, it was the efficiency in front of goal that ultimately separated the two sides, with Miami converting three of their seven shots on target.
Sarah Greiner provided the spark for the Hurricanes' attack, finding the back of the net while also registering two shots on goal in her 69 minutes of action. The midfielder's clinical finishing proved crucial in establishing Miami's offensive rhythm against a stubborn Lipscomb defense.
Brie Severns added to the Hurricanes' firepower with a well-taken goal, capping off an impressive individual performance that included two shots and one on target during her 64 minutes on the pitch. The forward's movement in the final third consistently troubled the Bisons' backline.
Substitute Allie Serlenga made an immediate impact off the bench, needing just 22 minutes to make her mark on the scoresheet. Her perfectly placed effort from her lone shot attempt demonstrated the depth and quality within Miami's attacking options.
For Lipscomb, Annessa Shively provided the lone bright spot in attack, converting her only shot on target to keep the Bisons competitive throughout the contest. Despite the loss, goalkeeper KaΓ£na Cesar deserves credit for a solid 90-minute performance, making several crucial saves to keep the margin respectable.
The tactical battle saw Miami dominate possession and territory, with Tori Grambo orchestrating play from the back while contributing an assist to go along with her defensive duties. The defender's 90-minute shift highlighted the Hurricanes' ability to build attacks from deep positions.
Lipscomb's defensive structure, anchored by Lauren Bennett and Rebekah Doolittle who both played the full 90 minutes, showed resilience despite the constant pressure. However, the Bisons' limited attacking output β managing just three shots on goal β highlighted their ongoing struggles in the final third.
The match marked a continuation of concerning trends for Lipscomb, whose goal difference of -3 through four matches reflects their difficulty in both creating and converting chances. Their recent form of three draws followed by this defeat suggests a team still finding its identity under pressure.
For Miami, the victory provides the perfect foundation for what they hope will be a successful campaign. The Hurricanes' ability to generate 16 shots while maintaining defensive solidity suggests a well-balanced approach that could serve them well as the season progresses.
The win moves Miami to 4-1-0 with a positive goal difference, while Lipscomb drops to 2-1-1 and will need to quickly regroup with upcoming matches against Mercer University and Florida Atlantic University on the horizon.
Key Players
- Sarah Greiner (Miami) - Scored one goal and registered two shots on target in 69 minutes, providing crucial attacking threat from midfield - Brie Severns (Miami) - Found the net while contributing two shots during 64 minutes of dynamic forward play - Annessa Shively (Lipscomb) - Scored the visitors' lone goal with a clinical finish, converting her only shot on target