TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - University of South Alabama soccer fell to Alabama 5-1 Sunday afternoon at the Alabama Soccer Complex. Alabama was led by forward Victoria Frederick, who recorded a hat trick in the match.
"We didn't play well as a team," USA head coach Mike Varga said. "We didn't have a good first half. We did a couple of things at halftime, and cut it to 2-1 early in the second half and made it a match, but Alabama worked hard to win the game. We just need to improve and get better.
"I think playing the schedule we have exposes any weaknesses that need improving, but we know the things we need to work on, and hopefully we will get it fixed by Friday."
Alabama (2-2-0) took a 1-0 lead on an unassisted goal by Rosaly Pertriello at the 4:41 mark of the first half. The Crimson Tide doubled its lead in the 33rd minute of the first half on Frederick's first goal of the match.
USA (1-4-0) cut the Alabama lead to 2-1 when forward Brandi Smith netted her first goal of the season at the 41:31 mark of the second half on an assist from Kasey Crowe. Smith broke away from the Crimson Tide defenders and netted a 10-yard shot inside the far post.
Alabama extended its lead to 3-1 on a goal by Kelsey King in the 60th minute of the match. Frederick scored the final two goals of the contest to round out the scoring.
USA goalkeeper Cassie Lythjohan recorded a career-high 12 saves in the match.
USA returns to the pitch next weekend when it hosts the Port City Classic. The Jags open the tournament Friday night against Jacksonville. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at "The Cage."
For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).
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