From staff reports
The USC Beaufort women’s soccer team saw its historic five-game winning streak to start the season come to an end Saturday afternoon, falling 1-0 to No. 10 North Georgia on the road.
“Great collective effort and some really good moments from the players against one of the top teams in the country,” USCB coach Gary Boughton said. “Hopefully we can build on that going forward.”
The Nighthawks capitalized on a late first-half opportunity to take a 1-0 lead, which they held onto for the remainder of the match. With the result, the Sand Sharks move to 5-1-0 on the season, while North Georgia improves to 5-0-1.
“I thought we played a really strong game from box to box, just weren’t able to create some of the chances we’ve been able to in previous games” said Boughton.
North Georgia outshot USCB, 21-6 overall, and held a 6-2 edge in shots on goal. It marked the first time this season the Sand Sharks have been held scoreless. Goalkeepers Graysen Asher and Ciazia Powe combined for five saves, with Powe recording three and Asher two. Kassi Martin and Izzy Amphlett each registered a shot on goal.
The Nighthawks opened the match with early pressure, creating chances including multiple blocked shots and a save from Asher. In the 33rd minute, North Georgia broke through with a cross into the box that was headed home by Cruz to give the hosts a 1-0 advantage.
USCB earned one corner kick in the first half but couldn’t convert, and the game went into halftime with North Georgia leading 1-0.
In the second half, the Sand Sharks began to find more rhythm offensively, posting six total shots, two of which were on goal, but North Georgia goalkeeper Lee came up with key saves to preserve the shutout.
Powe opened the half with a save in the 46th minute to keep the score close. Martin tallied USCB’s first shot on goal in the 50th minute, but the Nighthawks’ defense held firm.
The Sand Sharks had a final push, generating two late shots, but were unable to find the equalizer as North Georgia secured the 1-0 win.
USCB returns home for a pair of Peach Belt Conference matchups this week. The Sand Sharks were set to host Clayton State at 3 p.m. Wednesday followed by a Saturday match against Albany State at 1 p.m.
