AUBURNDALE, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University women's soccer goalkeeper Ariela Grady turned in a busy 20-save performance Sunday afternoon, but the Phoenix fell 8-0 to Polk State in a non-conference matchup. The loss moved Florida Poly to 0-5 on the season.
Polk State established control early, scoring twice in the opening four minutes. Gabby Louty opened the scoring at the 2:20 mark off an assist from Oriana Moreno before Isabella O'Sullivan doubled the advantage just 48 seconds later. Grady helped Florida Poly settle in after the early goals, making several saves as Polk continued to generate chances. The Eagles added another goal from Hannah Williams in the 21st minute before Jaycie Noble struck twice in the final three minutes of the half, sending the Phoenix into halftime trailing 5-0.
Despite facing constant pressure, Grady remained active in goal throughout the opening 45 minutes. She recorded 12 first-half saves, including multiple stops against Noble and O'Sullivan as Polk State finished the half with 25 shots. Florida Poly's defense also caught the Eagles offside 10 times in the first half, helping break up several attacking opportunities.
Florida Poly continued to battle defensively after the break, with Grady adding another eight saves. Polk State extended its lead in the 58th minute when Noble completed her hat trick, and Moreno scored four minutes later following an assist from O'Sullivan. Noble completed a four-goal afternoon in the 74th minute, finishing an O'Sullivan assist to account for the game's final goal. Grady continued making stops down the stretch, denying attempts from Kaylin Allen, Wendy Benedo, Andrea Romero and Laura Sofia over the final 11 minutes.
The Phoenix were held without a shot or corner kick as Polk State finished with a 49-0 advantage in shots and placed 28 attempts on goal. Grady played all 90 minutes and finished with 20 saves on 28 shots on goal, recording 12 stops in the first half and eight after halftime. Florida Poly committed four fouls in the match and did not receive a card.
