April 18, 2010
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The No. 9 Commodores’ second half surge proved to be too much for Florida, as Vanderbilt (11-3, 4-0) won the first ever meeting between the two schools, 12-7. With the win, the Commodores extended their school-record winning streak to ten games. Senior Carter Foote and sophomore Ally Carey led the ‘Dores with four goals each.
“Our defense and goaltending were amazing today,” said Commodore Head Coach Cathy Swezey. “Our whole team is riding a wave based on hard work and preparation. As coaches we are really proud of them.”
Foote opened the game with a goal at the 27:05 mark in the first half, giving Vanderbilt an early 1-0 lead. The Gators responded with two goals of their own, as Caroline Chesterman and Caroline Cochran each scored to put the Gators up 2-1. Vanderbilt’s Carey then added two goals to give the ‘Dores a 3-2 advantage. The two teams exchanged another pair of goals before halftime with Vanderbilt hanging on to a 4-3 lead.
Foote struck first again in the second half, giving Vanderbilt a 5-3 advantage. The Gators, however, took the lead with three straight goals. The Commodores fought back and finished off the game with a 7-1 run, finishing with Kendall Pittinger’s goal with 0:43 remaining.
Sophomore goalkeeper Natalie Wills was strong for the Commodores, picking up ten saves. Carey led the ‘Dores defensively with four draw controls and two ground balls. Senior Laura Keenan also added a team-high three ground balls in the win.
The Commodores have the week off before facing No. 1 Northwestern on Saturday, April 24, in Evanston, Illinois. Game time is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT.
