Reiss nets golden goal in conference opener

After a scoreless two halves, the Ospreys defeated the Liberty Flames, 1-0, with a late overtime goal by Thais Reiss.

With less than five minutes left to play in overtime, Reiss pushed past the Liberty defenders and scored the game winning goal on an assist by Hollyn Knight.

When asked about the golden goal, Reiss gave credit to her teammates.

“It makes me really happy because we brought effort and gave everything,” Reiss said. “This team is special, we’re a family. I may have scored but I couldn’t have done it without them.”

The Ospreys defense completely shut down Liberty’s offense by only allowing five shots (one on goal) throughout the match.

UNF Women’s Soccer Head Coach Eric Faulconer gave a nod to the defense’s performance against Liberty.

“They were fantastic. Our defenders played really well,” Faulconer said. “To keep a team that’s really been on a roll like Liberty has this season from scoring says a lot. They just kept on battling and believing. I am really proud of that group.”

UNF’s goalkeeper Rhiannon Conelley, who recorded her thirteenth career shutout, reflected on the win to open up conference play.

“It feels incredible. I can’t even explain the feeling of running into that huddle as soon as Thais scored the game winning goal,” Conelley said.

The late win brings the Ospreys record to 7-3-1 (1-0-0 ASUN) and Liberty’s to 5-5-2 (1-1-0 ASUN)

The UNF squad’s next game is on the road as they head up a state north to face Kennesaw State on Thursday, October 3 at 7:00 p.m.

PHOTO BY DARVIN NELSON