Written by José Terrassa.
The UCF women’s soccer team secured a decisive 2-0 victory over the University of Maine Black Bears in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, demonstrating their superior quality on home turf.
The Knights, entering the match as a No. 7 seed, proved why they were a formidable opponent, controlling the pace and generating a wealth of offensive opportunities against the America East champions.
The win advances UCF’s season record to 12-3-5 and secures its spot in the next round of the tournament.
The scoring for the Knights started in the 20th minute by senior forward Rajanah Reed, who has consistently been a key scoring threat for UCF all season. Midfielder Hannah Boughton then sealed the win by adding the second goal approximately 20 minutes into the second half.
A standout performer on the night was defender Guta Franke, who registered an assist on both of UCF’s goals, highlighting her critical role in transitioning defense to offense.
Additionally, First-Team All-Big 12 selection Liz Worden and midfielder Honoka Hamano also picked up assists, showcasing the Knights’ balanced offensive attack.
The Knights’ defense, which held Maine to just seven total shots, was anchored by goalkeeper Genesis Perez Watson, who maintained a clean sheet and made key saves, including a notable diving stop early in the game to deny a shot from Maine’s Gillian Rovers.
Ultimately, the Knights’ experience and firepower proved too much for the Black Bears, ending Maine’s third-straight trip to the NCAA Tournament.
UCF will now prepare to face the Duke Blue Devils in the round of 32 of the NCAA tournament. Their upcoming match will take place on November 20th at 6:30 p.m. at Duke’s Freeman Field at Koskinen Stadium.
