Baylor Squeezes Win over Florida

The Baylor University Bears (1-1-1) eked out a 2-1 victory with goal in the 89th minute against the University of Florida Gators (1-2-0).  The meeting was the first between the two clubs, and the first win for new Baylor head coach Michelle Lenard. 

“To fight back after giving up the equalizer, with not much time left on the clock, I’m really proud,” said Lenard. 

Lenard came to Baylor from Dallas Baptist University where she amassed an impressive record of 201-76-26. Lenard is benefitted with the return of 19 of their current 34 players. 

Baylor opened the season with a 1-1 draw versus Minnesota in Waco.  The Bears followed with a 0-2 loss to Big 10 rival Wisconsin.  

Florida’s head coach, Samantha Bohon, is also in her first year with the team.  Bohon joined Florida  after spending the last 15 seasons  at Embry-Riddle. 

Florida started the season with a loss to University Central Florida, but claimed a 3-0 win versus Stetson. 

Baylor’s Ashley Merrill opened the scoring in the 57th minute on a header from the front of the box.  Florida tied the match in the 81st minute off the foot of Alivia Gonzalez, assisted by Tessa Barton.  The matched looked to end in a draw until a goal by Baylor’s Gabby Mueller in the 89th minute.  The NCAA has eliminated overtime during regular season matches. 

The Bears had the advantage over the Gators in total shots (15-10) and corner kicks (7-2).  Florida produced only one shot in the first half.  Baylor also committed more fouls (11-6). 

Florida goalkeeper Alexa Goldberg showed great composure between the posts, making five saves against seven shots-on-target.