Women's Soccer Scores Twice In Second Half For Comeback Win Over Tampa

SALISBURY, N.C. -- The No. 21 Catawba College women's soccer team found themselves in unfamiliar territory in Thursday night's season opener against the University of Tampa. The Lady Indians scored twice in the second half to come from behind and defeat the Spartans, 2-1, on goals from Hannah Dunn and Sydney Jimmo. 

Tampa appeared to catch Catawba on their heels in the early moments of the game as the Spartans were able to score on last year's DII leading defense in the 6th minute to take an early 1-0 advantage. 

That score stood at the end of the first half were Catawba was able to muster just four total shots and a pair of corner kicks. 

The script was flipped almost immediately in half number two. The 21st-ranked team in the country came out of the break with immense pressure, and that led to an equalizing goal within the first 36 seconds. After a misplayed ball in the Tampa box, Helen Summerell corralled the loose ball, sent a pass to last year's leading goal scorer, Hannah Dunn, and she buried the first goal of the season for Catawba. 

Over the next 30 minutes, Catawba continued to settle in with more offensive chances and prolonged ball possession. The increased time within their attacking third paid off in the 81st minute. Hannah Dunn won a 50/50 ball outside the 18-yard box and tapped a pass to Sydney Jimmo. Jimmo beat the goalkeeper to the lower left portion of the net to give her team the 2-1 advantage. 

Catawba's defense held strong for the final nine minutes and allowed just one shot the rest of the way. 

Thursday night's win is Catawba's sixth straight season-opening win. The team will return to action this Saturday when Barton comes to town for a 7:00 p.m. kick-off.