GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 29, 2017) – Orlando Pride was fueled by three first half goals, as the team defeated host University of Florida 3-0 on Wednesday afternoon. It was the Pride’s third win in as many games this preseason, previously beating Stetson University and the University of South Florida in earlier matches.
“I was pleased with the showing from the squad today, especially since it was our first look at real Florida heat,” Pride Head Coach Tom Sermanni said after the match. “It was a good test for our new players and a reminder for our returners that this is what we need to be used to this season. Our possession and ball movement was positive this afternoon. Now it’s a quick recovery before our next game this Saturday.”
Christina Burkenroad, entering her sophomore season with the Pride, got the scoring started just five minutes in when she pounced on a rebound inside the six-yard box. Chioma Ubogagu took the initial shot, which was tipped off the bar by the Florida goalkeeper, but fell to the feet of Burkenroad.
Ubogagu followed with a goal of her own just seven minutes later, carrying possession through the Gators’ final third then firing a low shot into the net.
2016 Golden Boot winner Kristen Edmonds finished things off from the penalty spot in the 41st minute after Sarah Hagen drew the foul.
The Pride will see a quick turnaround for its next game, hosting Florida State University at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday. The match is closed to the public.
The Pride open the 2017 season on the road, traveling to face Portland Thorns FC on April 15. Orlando then hosts its first match at Orlando City Stadium a week later, welcoming the Washington Spirit on April 22. Tickets to all Pride home matches can be purchased at orlando-pride.com or by calling (855) ORL-CITY.
Scoring Summary:
ORL – Burkenroad 5’
ORL – Ubogagu 12’
ORL – Edmonds (PK) 41’
Lineups:
Orlando First Half: Harris; Fields, Krieger, Kennedy, Camila; Monica, Weatherholt, Edmonds; Ubogagu, Burkenroad (Hagen 23’), Spencer (D. Evans 31’)
Second: Bledsoe; O’Brien, Alleway, Pressley, Monica (Rodrigues 61’); M. Evans, Weatherholt (Burkenroad 64’), Driesse; D. Evans, Hagen, Spencer
