PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. | Florida Memorial (0-2, 0-1) dropped its conference opener 12-0 to crosstown rival St. Thomas at Broward College South Campus Field.
The Lions started the contest two players down due to injuries, as the starting nine put up a courageous effort throughout the contest. However, the Bobcats found the back of the net nine times in the opening half.
FMU's back line was much improved in the latter half as Johana Karbanová and
Nathaly Valladares battled to keep the St. Thomas strikers in check. Midfielder
Driade Freitas occupied the midfield for Florida Memorial, who as a team struggled to get shots on goal.
In the second half, three additional Lions went out with injuries, causing stoppage of play.
FMU goalkeeper
Hailey Ilijin was busy all afternoon, making countless sensational saves for the Lions. The sophomore keeper generated a season-high 23 saves in the loss.
The Lions return to action on Thursday, Oct. 6 as they host Southeastern in conference play. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Broward College South Campus.