Fairfield, Conn. – In the 104^th minute, Maddie Linde knocked in the game-winning goal as the Columbia women’s soccer team defeated Sacred Heart 1-0 in its second-consecutive overtime match this weekend on Sunday, Sept. 11.

The Lions offense were aggressive in the early going, including four shots and two corner kicks in the opening 15 minutes of play. Columbia dominated the ball with its offensive prowess behind season-high 10 total shots and five shots on goal in the first half. The defense held the Pioneers scoreless without a single shot attempt as both teams headed into the break tied at nil.

Columbia continued to knock on the door for a score in the second half blasting six shots toward the Sacred Heart defense. Despite not finding the back of the net in the period, the Lions defense remained strong to hold off the Pioneers. Sophie Whitehouse made three saves in goal to keep Sacred Heart scoreless and for the second-consecutive game the Lions headed into overtime.

With the intensity rising in the overtime period, it would be Linde who found the back of the net for the game-winning goal in the 104^th minute. Holly Neshat played a sensational shot in the center of the box near the front of the net and after a touch from Emily Johnson, Linde tapped in the score for the victory.

As impressive as the game-winning goal was the Lions defense in the match. For the second-consecutive game and third game this season goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse and the Columbia collective shutout its opponent. The Lions defense cap the weekend with 214 minutes played without allowing a goal.

The Lions improve to 2-3-1 on the season with the win and will look to continue its winning ways on Friday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. as they host Saint Joseph’s at FDU’s University Stadium.

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