Surprise, Ariz. — The OUAZ women's soccer team showed its resilience once again on Wednesday evening, earning a 1-1 draw against Park Gilbert at Spirit Field in GSAC action. The result moves the Spirit to 0-2-3 overall on the season.
The Buccaneers struck first in the opening half, converting a penalty kick from Bekah Sipinga to take a 1-0 lead into the break.
Despite trailing for much of the match, the Spirit continued to press forward in search of an equalizer. OUAZ created several scoring opportunities throughout the second half, including chances from Janessa Lugo, Meredith Galus, and Grace Otero while earning multiple corner kicks and keeping pressure on the Buccaneers defense.
The breakthrough finally came in the closing moments of regulation when Desiree Dutra found the back of the net in the 90th minute to tie the match at 1-1. The dramatic goal, scored with just seconds remaining, stands as the third-latest goal in program history and secured a valuable conference point for the Spirit.
Defensively, Georgina Hagger provided another solid outing in goal, making key saves and helping keep OUAZ within striking distance throughout the contest. The Spirit defense also limited Park Gilbert's opportunities after halftime, allowing OUAZ the chance to mount its late comeback.
The draw marks OUAZ's third 1-1 result of the season and moves the Spirit to 0-1-2 in GSAC play.
OUAZ returns to the road on Saturday, Sept. 19, when it travels to Aliso Viejo, California to face Soka University of America in a GSAC Showdown. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
