Box Score
San Francisco, CA – The Academy of Art University battled through a physical game against Grand Canyon University on Saturday afternoon. Both teams were relentless and playing tough, eager for the win. The physicality of the game paired with the strength of the 'Lopes' offense seemed too much for the Urban Knights. Despite a well fought game, the Knights ended up losing with a final score of 1-6.
The 'Lopes took an early lead in the game when they scored in the first ten minutes of play. They quickly added to their lead by scoring again just a few minutes later. After that, the Knights took action and stepped up their defense. They battled hard for the remainder of the first half. Despite their strong defense, the 'Lopes found a way to add one more goal to their lead before taking them into halftime.
But the Knights were playing hard and it showed. After some injuries that occurred during the game, the ladies were forced to step up their game even more. Despite having to overcome those injuries, the Knights were aggressive offensively and still putting up shots on goal; but nothing seemed to find the net.
Late in the second half, junior Megan Bucci had a breakaway from midfield, and scored unassisted to put her team on the board. She had another close shot on goal just a few minutes later, but it was stopped by the 'Lopes' keeper. Even with the late rally and the ongoing efforts of both ART U's offensive and defense, they could not overcome the deficit from earlier in the game, and they ultimately lost 1-6.
Bucci led the offense for the Urban Knights with one goal and two shots on goal on the day. Senior Emi Sullivan had two shots including one on goal, while Lauren Umana, Miriam Tolentino, and Solveig Barnes each had one shot on goal in the game. Melissa Co was in the net for the Knights the entire match. She allowed six goals and recorded four saves in the game.
Grand Canyon's Marina Nesic had great game for her team. She recorded five of the six 'Lopes' goals, all of which were unassisted. In her six shots on goal in the game, five found the net. Kayla Poe also scored one goal in the game for her team.
After the loss, the Academy of Art University's record falls to 0-2 in the PacWest and 1-2-1 overall, while Grand Canyon University's record improves to 2-0 in conference and 4-1 overall. The Urban Knights will have one more home game before they head on the road. Their next game is scheduled for Wednesday, September 22nd against the University of Hawaii Hilo. Game time is set for 1:00 pm at Boxer Stadium.
