TAMPA, Fla. — Eckerd claimed a crucial road victory over Tampa 1-0 on Wednesday, extending its winning streak to two matches with a late decisive strike. Freija Aflenzer broke through in the 82nd minute to secure the Tritons' second consecutive win, improving their record to 6-5-3 while handing the Spartans their second straight defeat.
The match remained scoreless through 81 minutes of competitive Division II play, with both teams generating limited clear-cut opportunities. Eckerd's goalkeeper Madi Winn made one crucial save late in the contest, while Tampa's Lia Doohan recorded a save in the 66th minute off a Sylvia MohrSting attempt. The defensive battle reflected the regional tournament implications at stake for both programs.
Aflenzer's winning goal came from close range off a right-footed finish, with Kailani Casazza providing the assist. The breakthrough arrived after Eckerd had pressed forward throughout the second half, creating multiple scoring chances that went unrealized until the decisive moment. Casazza, who entered the match as a second-half substitute in the 73rd minute, made an immediate impact on the outcome.
Eckerd dominated possession in the final stages, earning five corner kicks compared to Tampa's six for the match. The Tritons' attacking pressure mounted as the clock wound down, finally converting their opportunity when it mattered most. Aflenzer finished with two shots on goal, leading her team's offensive efforts.
Tampa struggled to generate sustained attacking momentum despite playing at home. The Spart