Defensive Effort Leads Tampa To SSC Finals

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - The University of Tampa (14-5) women's soccer team went on the road and handed host Nova Southeastern University (9-6-1) a 2-0 defeat on Friday in the semifinals of the 2010 Sunshine State Conference Tournament.

The Spartan defensive unit held the Sharks without a shot in the first half and broke the deadlock with a Courtney Peffley goal in the 52nd minute.

Brittan Spence extended the advantage to 2-0 with another score in the 82nd minute. Peffley played a role in both goals, assisting on Spence's goal on a sent ball from the left side.

Leah Cesanek earned her third consecutive shutout and 10th of her freshman season while finishing with three saves. UT held a 4-3 edge on shots on goal with Nova leading in the shots category, 6-4.

UT will face No. 24 Florida Tech for the SSC tournament championship on Sunday in Fort Lauderdale. The match will begin at 1 p.m. as the Spartans are looking for their fourth SSC tourney title and first since 2007. Live stats will be available through www.tampaspartans.com.

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