Freshman’s golden goal gives Florida a win in season opener

Posted Aug 21, 2010 by Aaron Oberlin

Updated Aug 21, 2010 at 11:28 AM

Freshman Taylor Travis’ first collegiate goal was a memorable one.

In her first game with the University of Florida women’s soccer team, the forward scored a golden goal in the 107th minute to beat Miami 2-1 in double overtime on Friday night. She shot from seven yards to the far post to lead the No. 11 Gators to victory in their season opener.



“I’m high as a kite right now,” Travis said after the game. “It’s the best feeling in the world.”

“The goal was really well executed,” UF coach Becky Burleigh said. “It was great composure to finish that last goal.”

Travis contributed on the first goal as well, connecting with sophomore McKenzie Barney in the 49th minute. Inside the keeper’s box, the mid-fielder scored on a sliding kick past Miami goalkeeper Vikki Alonzo, giving Florida a 1-0 lead early in the second half.

Forward Blake Stockton answered back for Miami in the 53rd minute. The goal was unassisted.

“I would’ve liked to have a shutout,” said UF goalkeeper Katie Fraine. “Overall, I was happy with the play of the whole team. It’s the first game, so you gotta get those first-game jitters out.”

Miami was feeling the first-game jitters itself, missing several close shots. The Hurricanes finished the game with 12 shots, four on goal. The Gators finished with 18 shots, eight on goal.

“This hurts, but there is no chance it will keep us down,” said Miami coach Tricia Taliaferro. “We played well, and I am proud of our performance.”

Florida travels to Orlando to face No. 25 Central Florida on Aug. 22.