CEDAR CITY, Utah – For most of Southern Utah's match on Friday it appeared that the Thunderbirds were on their way to coming away with their first win of the season in Summit League play. An early score put SUU out in front 1-0, but IPFW would record a late goal to force overtime. The Mastodons were then able to notch the game-winner on a penalty kick in the first extra period for the 2-1 victory.
The Thunderbirds got off to a fast start as Stacey Brinkman had a good look at the goal just minutes into the match, but her shot would be just wide. Missy Lazcano was then able to put one on frame but IPFW goalkeeper Krysta Hedrick was there for the save. A few minutes later Lazcano found herself open for another shot after taking a pass from teammate Riley Basset and this time the junior forward would connect from 18 yards out to put the T-Birds on top 1-0.
With the goal Lazcano matches Brinkman for the team high with four goals on the year. Bassett's sixth assist sets a new single season record for SUU and increased her career record to 12. The senior midfielder became the school's all-time assist leader earlier this year in a match against Utah Valley.
Southern Utah's defense held off the IPFW attack for the majority of the match, anchored by goalkeeper Breanna Fitzgerald who made five saves. Then with less than fifteen minutes remaining in regulation Mastodon midfielder Tylar Allison sent a corner kick in to the box where Amber Lawrence was able to redirect the ball into the back of the net to even the score, 1-1.
The score remained level throughout the remainder of regulation and well into the first overtime period. Then a collision between Fitzgerald and IPFW's Arianne Mason set up a potential game-winning penalty kick for the 'Dons. Danielle Bishop was able to convert the attempt for the game-winner, setting the final score at 2-1 in favor of the home team.
With the win IPFW improves to 2-4 in the Summit League and 5-9 overall. Southern Utah falls to 0-5 in conference play and 2-10-3 for the season. The Thunderbirds will look to capture their first Summit League victory against Oakland this Sunday at 11:00 a.m. (MT)
