MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. | Florida Memorial University battled Ave Maria University to a 1-1 draw Friday afternoon at Dr. Lester Brown Park.
The Gyrenes struck first in the seventh minute on a penalty kick, but the Lions responded midway through the opening half. In the 32nd minute, sophomore Alaira Handy found the back of the net for her sixth goal of the season off an assist from senior Rudo Marufu, leveling the score at 1-1.
FMU controlled much of the action offensively, outshooting Ave Maria 14-9 and placing eight shots on target. The Lions generated several scoring opportunities throughout the contest but couldn't find the goal.
Defensively, FMU held strong over the final 58 minutes, preserving the draw despite continued pressure from the Gyrenes.
Goalkeeper Isabella Rueda played all 90 minutes, allowing one goal with five saves.
The tie moves FMU to 5-3-1.
The Lions return to action on Wednesday, Sept. 30, when they travel to St. Thomas for the conference opener. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. at Autonation Field.
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