Sharks take care of the Mustangs at home

The Miami Dade Sharks defeated Monroe University 3-2. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with Miami Dade capitalizing on early momentum to secure the victory.

Miami Dade struck first just 2:47 into the match when Tessa Abreu found the back of the net to give her team a 1-0 lead. Monroe quickly responded, however, as Katherine Neves scored at the 25 minute mark, to level the game at 1 apiece.

Miami Dade regained the lead five minutes later when Julia Gurgel scored a goal at 30:38, putting them ahead 2-1 heading into halftime.

The second half began with Miami Dade extending their lead as Rebeka Gaal scored at 55:26, making it 3-1. Monroe refused to go down without a fight, as Neves scored her second goal of the match at 67:38, closing the gap to 3-2 with an unassisted effort.

Despite Monroe's late surge and a flurry of shots, Miami Dade's goalkeeper, Ashley Fonseca, put on a defensive clinic with 13 saves, protecting the narrow lead. Monroe's keeper, Beatrice Vitaletti, also had a solid game, making six saves, but it wasn't enough to prevent the defeat.

Monroe dominated in terms of shots, outshooting Miami Dade 22-13, but Miami Dade's efficiency in front of goal made the difference. Neves was a standout for Monroe with six shots, all on target, and two goals, but the Mustangs couldn't break through Fonseca's defense to equalize.

The Sharks will have the day off on Thursday before taking on St. Thomas University on Friday. The game is scheduled for 5 PM.