Two programs located just 404 miles apart finally met for the first time in the NCAA Tournament. The Gators women’s soccer team defeated the South Alabama Jaguars 3-1 in an opening round match at Dizney Stadium on the UF campus.
Florida got on the board in the 34th minute after a series of quick touches resulted in a goal by Madison Alexander. The play started at the top of the 18-yard box where Sarah Troccoli hit a streaking Gabby Seiler who then sent a ball across the box where Alexander finished with a one-touch goal.
Florida scored once more before halftime as Melanie Monteagudo scored on a solid individual effort with just over a minute remaining before the intermission.
Less than ten minutes into the second period Florida increased it’s lead to 3-0 when Troccoli one-touched a perfect pass from Monteagudo into the back of the net.
The Jaguars added a late goal (85th minute) after a poor pass attempt by the Gators defense.
The Gators are headed to the second round for the 17th time in the program’s 21 tournament appearances. Florida will host either FGCU or USF (the winner of Saturday’s first round match) next Friday.