FORT MYERS, Fla. — #4 Bellarmine pulled off a stunning upset Thursday night, dismantling top-seeded FGCU 3-1 in the ASUN Championship match. The visiting Knights dominated stretches of play and capitalized on their opportunities with clinical finishing, while the Eagles struggled to find their rhythm despite controlling possession at times. The result sends shockwaves through the conference tournament and dramatically reshapes the NCAA Tournament landscape.
Brynn Severance opened the scoring for Bellarmine in the 14th minute, finishing a chance set up by McKenzie Carle to give the Knights an early advantage. The goal came after a period of tentative play from both sides, but it energized the visitors. Lucy von Stefenelli doubled the lead just before halftime in the 29th minute, with Dakota Bramer providing the assist. FGCU, ranked first nationally entering the match, found itself in an unfamiliar position—trailing at the break against a team that came in as the fourth seed.
The first half belonged largely to Bellarmine's defense and transition game. While FGCU generated chances, including efforts from Erika Zschuppe and Kate Friday, the Eagles couldn't find the back of the net. Bellarmine's backline stood firm, and goalkeeper made nine saves to keep the home team at bay. The Knights' ability to absorb pressure and strike on the counter proved the difference in a half that saw FGCU outshoot Bellarmine 12-9 overall but trail 2-0.
FGCU came out aggressive after halftime, pressing higher and creating more dangerous opportunities. The Eagles generated multiple chances in the opening minutes of the second half, with Lily Borders hitting the woodwork and Elena Hinkson forcing saves. For stretches, it appeared the top seed might mount a comeback. But Bellarmine's defense remained resolute, and the Knights' goalkeeper continued to make crucial stops when needed.
McKenzie Carle put the match essentially out of reach in the 64th minute, scoring to make it 3-0. The goal came after sustained pressure from Bellarmine, who had been creating chances throughout the second half. FGCU finally broke through late when Kendal Gargiula scored in the 86th minute, but by then the damage was done. The Eagles' consolation goal came too late to spark any meaningful comeback.
Bellarmine's defense was the story of the night. The Knights limited FGCU's most dangerous chances and forced the Eagles into difficult positions all evening. While both teams finished with nine saves, Bellarmine's goalkeeper made several critical stops in high-pressure moments. The visiting backline, anchored by players like Sidney Rigsby and others, refused to break despite FGCU's persistent attacking efforts.
The statistics tell a tale of two different approaches. Bellarmine took 18 shots with 12 on target, while FGCU attempted 22 shots but managed only 10 on goal. The Eagles earned four corner kicks to Bellarmine's two, yet couldn't convert their territorial advantage into goals when it mattered most. Lauren Dwyer picked up a yellow card late for FGCU, the only disciplinary action of the match.
This result carries massive implications for both programs' NCAA Tournament resumes. Bellarmine's upset victory over the top seed provides a signature win that could significantly boost the Knights' tournament credentials. For FGCU, the loss ends their bid for an ASUN Championship and raises questions about their seeding in the NCAA Tournament despite their regular-season success.
Bellarmine improves to 12-5-3 with the victory, while FGCU falls to 11-6-2. The Eagles will regroup and prepare for the NCAA Tournament, where they'll likely still earn an at-large bid despite the championship loss. Bellarmine, meanwhile, has given themselves a genuine opportunity to make noise in the postseason with this statement win.