GREENWOOD, S.C. — The Georgia Southwestern State University women's soccer team built a two-goal lead on the road Wednesday night, but a furious late comeback from Lander University spoiled the upset bid as the Hurricanes fell, 3–2, in Peach Belt Conference play at Van Taylor Stadium.
After a scoreless first half, GSW stunned the second-place Bearcats with back-to-back goals early in the second. Lucia Bustamante opened the scoring in the 51st minute with her team-leading fifth goal of the season, striking from distance to put the Hurricanes in front. Less than 20 minutes later, Delaney Thomas doubled the advantage in the 69th minute with an unassisted finish, giving GSW a 2–0 edge heading into the final stretch.
Lander, however, mounted a relentless push in the closing minutes. Peyton Bibbee cut the deficit in half in the 76th minute, Paige Bailey netted the equalizer in the 88th, and goalkeeper Leah Hayes Coen delivered the stunning game-winner with just 10 seconds remaining.
The Hurricanes (4-7-2, 1-5-2 PBC) managed four shots on the night — all in the second half — with three on target. Goalkeeper Alana Beddow turned away seven shots in a busy performance that kept GSW in front for much of the match.
The victory was Lander's 17th in 20 meetings between the two programs. Georgia Southwestern's lone win in the all-time series came in the first-ever matchup back in 2006.
Next Up
- The Hurricanes return to Americus for their home finale on Saturday against Clayton State. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Hurricane Field.
