Nov. 2, 2006

Box Score

LAFAYETTE, LA -- Natalie D'Oria fired three shots on goal, but the Florida Atlantic University women's soccer team couldn't beat Denver goalkeeper Danielle Wiley or the Pioneer defense as FAU fell in the semifinals of the Sun Belt Championship on Thursday, 2-0.

The loss brings the Owls' season to a close earlier than they had hoped. The team had won each of its last seven matches heading into Thursday's match.

"We made two critical mistakes that lead to goals and we couldn't overcome it," Head Coach Brian Dooley said. "We played a really good second half and really pressed the game. We had some good opportunities, but Denver is a complete team. They're fun to watch."

The Owls held the edge in shots 6-5 in the opening half but all five of Denver's shots were on target while Florida Atlantic could muster just one shot on goal.

Lizzy Carlson found Dana Shonberger who beat FAU goalkeeper Megan Coyne just 1:10 into the contest. Sun Belt Player of the Year Taryn Hemmings took a pass from Laura Mann and converted on the chance, giving the Pioneers a 2-0 lead in the 25th minute.

The Owls were out-shot 5-3 in the final 45 minutes, but each keeper was asked to make just one save.

The loss brought an end to the careers of Megan Coyne, Christina Chang, Cristina Rodriguez, Meredith White and Beckie Ware.

Coyne finishes among the career leaders in nearly every goaltending category for Florida Atlantic, while Cristina Rodriguez and Meredith White have been a part of FAU's dominating defense for their entire careers. Christina Chang finished her career with 17 career goals, while Beckie Ware provided strong leadership and a pair of goals during her senior season.

"As they look back at their careers they won't think of this game today, they'll look at the accomplishments of their time here, which include a conference championship an NCCA appearance," Dooley said. "They should be proud."

Florida Atlantic finishes at 11-8-2 on the year, a campaign that featured the 150th win for Dooley, including his 100th win at FAU in the regular-season finale versus Florida International.