GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The University of Pikeville women's soccer team rallied from a two-goal deficit to earn a 2-2 draw against Brenau University on Saturday afternoon at Allen Creek.
The Bears (7-5-2, 4-2-2 AAC) battled back after conceding twice in the opening 20 minutes, scoring once before halftime before finding a late equalizer in the closing minutes.
Brenau (5-2-5, 3-2-3 AAC) opened the scoring in the 10th minute when Madison Kitson found the back of the net off an assist from Ada Peeples. The Golden Tigers doubled their advantage in the 20th minute as Sarah Clark scored an unassisted goal to put UPIKE in a 2-0 hole.
The Bears continued to apply pressure throughout the first half, recording 11 shots in the opening 45 minutes. Their persistence paid off just before the break when Kylie Ritter scored her first goal of the season in the 45th minute. Ruby D'Arcy provided the assist, cutting the deficit to 2-1 heading into halftime.
UPIKE continued to search for the equalizer in the second half, generating six additional shots while limiting Brenau to four attempts. Sara Ritter led the Bears with six shots, including four on target, while Rebekah Christopher recorded three shots on goal.
The Bears' late pressure finally broke through in the 89th minute. Christopher scored her first goal of the season at the 88:18 mark, finding the net to level the match at 2-2 and complete the comeback.
UPIKE finished with a 17-9 advantage in shots and a 12-6 edge in shots on goal. The Bears also earned six corner kicks compared to one for the Golden Tigers. Goalkeeper Claire Cress played all 90 minutes and recorded four saves.
The draw moves Pikeville to 7-5-2 overall and 4-2-2 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play as the Bears continue their conference schedule.
UPIKE returns to action Wednesday, Oct. 21, traveling to Milligan, Tenn., to face Milligan University. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
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