Sept. 3, 2004

(Salt Lake City) - USF women's soccer made a large statement today as they battled 30th ranked Utah to a 1-1 double overtime tie, in non-conference action at Ute Field in Salt Lake City, Utah. San Francisco (0-1-2) played their second straight double overtime game in less than a week, and battled the Utes (1-1-1) gamely through 110 minutes of non-stop soccer action.

After falling behind 1-0 on a goal by Utah senior midfielder Tracy Stratton in the games 51st minute, the Dons were able to battle back to earn their second tie of the season.

Leading the way for the Dons, was senior midfielder and 2003 second team All-WCC player Annika Schmidt. It was Schmidt's tying goal in the final minutes of the second-half that sent the game into extra time. Despite some close calls in the games dying minutes, USF was unable to pull away from a very prepared and organized Utah squad.

Head Coach Pamela Kalinoski was pleased with the effort her team put forward today. "Our team played really hard and showed a lot of heart in our comeback. It was a constant battle against a very prepared and seasoned team. We were up to the challenge and I am very proud of our effort today."

Defensively, the Dons played their strongest game of the season in what was a very physical affair. Anchoring the defense were seniors Laura Ott and Alana Healy, but freshmen's Katie Hoban and Kara Breithaupt according to Coach Kalinoski deserve special mention. "For Katie and Kara to play important minutes and make such positive contributions really makes me pleased." Said Kalinoski.

Sophomore midfielder Kate Nelson made her first appearance of the season and played well in her debut, which is an encouraging sign for Don's soccer fans.

In net for the Dons was senior goalkeeper Stephanie Beall, who made five saves to improve her record to 0-1-2.

USF will look to build on the momentum of today's match, as they play the Weber State Wildcats in game two of the Utah Fall Classic at 4:00 pm tomorrow afternoon.