Spring Break
Soccer downed by Florida in final minutes
Dogs split pair over weekend
DREW KANN
Issue date: 10/19/09 Section: Sports
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"That's just unfortunately sometimes the cruelty of our game," said Georgia head coach Patrick Baker. "You can dictate so much, but if you can't put the ball in the back of the net then you leave the game in the balance, and it just never should have been."
Sunday's heartbreaking loss was Georgia's first loss to the Gators at home since a 2-0 loss in 2005, Baker's first season in Athens.
Sunday's loss was a disappointing one for the Bulldogs, who came into the match flying high after taking down No. 5-ranked and previously unbeaten South Carolina by a score of 2-1 Friday night. Friday night's victory over the Gamecocks was the highest-ranked opponent that the Bulldogs have defeated in program history.
The Bulldogs picked up Sunday right where they left off, keeping the Gators on their heels with shot after shot all afternoon.
With 20:10 remaining in the first half, forward Carrie Patterson made a nice run forward past two Florida defenders before dishing to fellow forward Ashley Miller, who fired a shot near post, forcing Florida keeper Katie Fraine to make a diving stop.
Fraine had a busy afternoon keeping the Bulldogs out of the back of the net, making 10 saves, as the Bulldogs outshot the Gators 21-11 in the match.
Even more telling of the Bulldogs offensive dominance is the 12 corner kicks attempted by Georgia, compared to zero by the visiting Gators.
Such was the story all afternoon however, as the Bulldogs failed to capitalize on chances.
The Bulldogs had a goal by midfielder Jamie Pollock whistled offsides on a questionable call in the 53rd minute.
Later, with 11 minutes left to play, forward Ashley Miller dished to an open Carrie Patterson, who beat two UF defenders but fired a shot that was easily gobbled up by the Florida keeper.
After 85 minutes of scoreless soccer, Florida finally broke the deadlock, mounting a counter attack that was one of its few trips into Georgia territory in the second frame. Florida's Lindsay Thompson sent a cross from the right flank that found the head of Tahnai Annis at the back post for the game winner.
"It was just disappointing to give up a goal that late in the game after we worked so hard after 85 minutes," said defender Kelli Corless. "Overall we're excited about how we played and performed against a good team but next time around we've just got to finish our chances."
The Bulldogs have a short week to prepare for a Thursday night match against the Alabama Crimson Tide, who visit the UGA Soccer Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff.
