FLORENCE, Ala. (October 8, 2026) – The University of North Alabama women's soccer team dropped a 1-0 decision to Abilene Christian on Thursday night in the second all-time game at the newly-opened Bank Independent Stadium.
North Alabama (5-3-3, 2-2-0 UAC) outshot the Wildcats 16-15 tonight with seven shots on goal, six that came from Gracie Tyrrell, Anna Fugarino and Meg Welsh.
Abilene Christian (5-2-5, 2-0-2 UAC) stays unbeaten after a penalty kick goal in the 19th minute from Addison Briscoe. The referee, after review, ruled Tyrell got tangled with ACU's Nia Leslie in the box which awarded the PK opportunity.
Aside from the PK, keeper Emily Dorfman played brilliantly as she punched out several crossers while simultaneously knocking down big goal opportunities for her defense to clear out. She had eight saves tonight, the second most in a game this season for the junior.
Eight different Lions had a shot, as Fugarino led the way with four while Welsh was close behind with three. Tyrrell, Gizelle El Assal and Catherine Schneiderhan each had two shots.
Twenty Lions found playing time in this one as four players competed full time in Adelyn Speight, Dorfman, Tyrrell and Lilly Ford. Cara Pitzerled the reserves with 47 minutes played, as captain Charlotte Sobotka was close behind with 41.
This was only the third time this season the Lions were held scoreless and the first time in conference action.
North Alabama wraps up a three-game home stand against Tarleton State on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 1 p.m. at Bank Independent Stadium.
For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
