BOX SCORE

FLORENCE, S.C. – Senior midfielder Alison Gajus scored her first career goal in the 70th minute, helping the Eastern Kentucky University women’s soccer team to a 1-1 tie at Francis Marion University on Sunday. With the result, the Colonels snap a five match losing streak and will enter OVC play with a record of 2-6-2.

“It’s still frustrating, because this is a game we should’ve won,” Gajus said. “At the same time, we ended the match well, attacking with confidence and finally capitalizing with a goal.”

The Patriots got on the board in the 29th minute when FMU defender Nina Connell headed in a goal off a corner kick. The goal ended a long Patriots scoreless streak and gave Francis Marion a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

The second half was scoreless until Gajus, off a failed clearance, lofted a shot from 27 yards out that found the back of the net and tied the match. After two hard fought overtime periods, the match ended in a tie.

“This result boosts our confidence, but we were all definitely looking for a win,” sophomore forward Alex Raich said. “Obviously, we’re all ready for a victory.”

EKU was out shot on the day 17-12. Sophomore forward Alex Hartwick led the Colonel offense with four shots, two of which were on goal.”

Sophomore keeper Stephanie Lynch played all 110 minutes of the two overtime match in goal for the Colonels, allowing just one goal and making five saves.

The Colonels return to action on Friday, October 3, at Tennessee Tech. Game time is set for 5:00 p.m.

“I think once we’re able to play a full 90 minute match, without mental breakdowns, we’re going to be a tough team to beat,” Gajus said. “We’re confident heading into OVC play.”