MCKENZIE, Tenn. (08.31.09) - The Bethel University women's soccer team got Candice Solcido's first hat trick and took a 2-0 first half lead, but could not hold off USI in a 3-4 loss. USI notched three goals in a span of 9:31 in the second half.
The Lady Wildcats put the pressure on in the first half, outshooting USI 8-3. That created opportunities and Solcido put Bethel on the board first with a goal in the 38th minute with an assist from Toni Barraco. It only took 4:23 for Solcido to notch her second goal, this time with an assist from Rachel Rathbone. With Solcido's offensive outburst, the Lady ‘Cats led 2-0 at the half.
What was working for the Lady Wildcats in the first half didn't work in the second. USI limited Bethel to just one shot on goal and took 11. Just 3:05 in the second, the Screaming Eagles cut the lead to 2-1. Two more quick goals and USI held a 3-2 lead. Solcido knotted up the score with her third goal at 71:19; she was assisted byJordan Nuffer. But, 7:19 later, the Screaming Eagles got their go ahead and winning goal.
Bethel goalkeeper, Tashana Taylor, made five saves in the loss.
Bethel is 0-2 on the young season. The Lady Wildcats will be on the road this coming Saturday, September 5, 2009 to play Tennessee Wesleyan at 4:00pm.
