UWA women claim first victory over UNA

rp_primary_WSoc_13-09-05_314aa_fLIVINGSTON — West Alabama women’s soccer posted three goals in the second half to defeat rival North Alabama 3-2 in Gulf South Conference action at Tiger Stadium on Tuesday.

“We showed a phenomenal effort, especially being down at half time,” said UWA head women’s soccer coach Graeme Orr. “We really came out in the second half and produced a terrific performance. We maintained our composure to finish off the game.”

West Alabama (7-3; 2-1 GSC) remains undefeated in regulation this season and on a four match win streak. It is North Alabama’s (4-5-1; 2-4-1) first ever loss to the Tigers.

UNA’s Jennifer Osmond recorded two goals making her the Lions’ leading scorer with seven on the year. Her first goal came in the 44th minute to give the Lions a 1-0 lead at the half.

Brandi Neeley scored the equalizer in the first three minutes of the second half on a pass from Lauren Tate. It was Neeley’s second goal this season.

Nicola Gibson added her third goal of the season in the 54th minute to give the Tiger’s its first lead of the match. Tate posted her first goal of the season in what proved the game winner in the 81st minute off of a penalty kick.

GSC Defender of the Week Tori Brook led her defense to its fourth consecutive match of holding opponents to single-digit shot marks. The Tigers out-shot the Lions 16-5; 9-3 on goal.

Starting goalkeeper Issy Foster recorded her sixth victory to improve to 6-3 on the year.

UWA women’s soccer will remain in conference action as it hosts Shorter University on Friday. The match is set for 5 p.m. in Tiger Stadium.