Box Score Dallas, TX. -- The women's team traveled to Dallas, Texas for a tournament Friday and Saturday at the University of Texas-Dallas. The team flew into town yesterday and were welcomed at their hotel by a sweet surprise of balloons and yummy snacks delivered by the Dallas Prin Club. After an hour of rest from traveling, the team practiced at UTD to get acclimated to the weather and field. The dry heat has been a nice change from the humidity in St. Louis. The day concluded with a hearty pasta dinner at Olive Garden.On Friday, the team ate breakfast, read the Bible Lesson, and worked on homework at the hotel. After a brief chalk talk, they headed to UTD for the 5:00pm game against the hosting UTD Comets.
During the first half, Principia worked to find a rhythm, while adjusting to the heat. The Comets scored in the first 10 minutes due to late tackling in the back. Junior and keeper, Genevieve Smith, tipped the ball for a save but it barely made it passed her and into the net, resulting in the first and only goal of the half.
Principia looked like an entirely fresh squad the second half, although there were no major changes to the lineup. It was clear that the team made a decision to take control of the game and situation and not let the score, heat, or any other distraction deter them from what they wanted to do. Soon it became apparent that Principia had the run of play in the second half and it came as a result when a string of passes starting from the defense built up into a goal scoring opportunity. The ball traveled from Nadine Marczi to Merran Waller, who fed it to Emma Dixon for a shot, her first goal of the season. Georgia Mae Hurley was there to ensure that the ball crossed the line.
The following 20 minutes was an inspiring battle between both teams with significant opportunities and saves on both sides. Ultimately, a tie in regulation meant the teams would go into overtime. One of the UTD forwards took a shot 30 yards out that sailed into the net 6 minutes into overtime finishing the game with the final score of 2-1.
Smith came up with some important saves, keeping Principia in the game.
After the game, the tournament hosts welcomed Principia for a pasta dinner. The head coach of UTD was gracious enough to invite the team to a Buca di Beppo catered dinner where the players mingled together enjoying each other company after a strong match.
We were very grateful for support and attendance of the Dallas Prin Club members, alumni, family, and friends at our game today. Their cheers were greatly appreciated!
The women return to UTD tomorrow for a game against Mount St. Mary's College at 3pm.
