Browns Summit – UNC Pembroke Women’s Soccer Falls to Francis Marion in Conference Semifinal
In a hard-fought battle on a sunny Friday afternoon, the women’s soccer team of UNC Pembroke faced off against Francis Marion University in the Conference Carolinas Tournament semifinal at the Truist Soccer Complex in Browns Summit. The game, characterized by fierce competition, ended with a 2-1 victory for the Patriots.
Decisive Moments
The match began with early action as Krystina Syragakis from Francis Marion scored just three minutes into the game. Taking advantage of a deflected shot that landed right at her feet, Syragakis found the back of the net, giving the Patriots a quick 1-0 lead.
As the game progressed, UNC Pembroke’s Anna Grossheim emerged as a standout player. Showing remarkable skill, she netted her 44th career goal with a stunning Olimpico shot during a corner kick in the 71st minute. This goal tied Grossheim with UNCP Hall of Famer Melanie Cobb for the most goals in the team’s history.
However, the excitement didn’t end there. With less than a minute to go in the game, J.G. Garon placed the Patriots back in the lead with a last-minute goal. Following a blocked shot from Syragakis, the deflection landed right in front of Garon, who made no mistake capitalizing by sending the ball into the net.
Game Statistics
Tournament Implications
Looking ahead, the Braves must now await the results of the NCAA selection process as they vie for an at-large bid in the NCAA Tournament. UNC Pembroke was ranked eighth in the regional standings prior to the conference tournament, with eight available slots for the NCAA Southeast Regional. There is anticipation surrounding the game between Belmont Abbey and Francis Marion for the automatic berth.
Next Steps
The selection show is scheduled for Monday night at 7 p.m. and will be streamed on NCAA.com. UNC Pembroke’s hopes for a postseason berth rely on their performance metrics and standings in the wake of the conference tournament.
As the season progresses, both teams will look back on this semifinal match as a crucial moment in the conference landscape and a testament to the intensity of collegiate women’s soccer.
