LEXINGTON, Ky. — Eva Blanke scored the game-winning goal in double overtime as Transylvania University women's soccer defeated Franklin College 2-1 Saturday afternoon in the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament quarterfinals at Pat Deacon Stadium.
The victory advanced the Pioneers to the HCAC Tournament semifinals and improved their overall record to 10-3-4. After a scoreless opening half, Franklin broke through in the 56th minute when Amirah Curry found the back of the net to give the Grizzlies a 1-0 advantage. Transylvania responded less than four minutes later as Ellie Held scored off an assist from Ginger Mooser at 58:55, leveling the match at 1-1.
The Pioneers controlled the offensive opportunities throughout the remainder of regulation, outshooting Franklin 11-1 in the second half. Despite several chances, including shots on goal from Makenna Johnson, Olivia Thomas, Blanke and Mooser, the match remained tied through 90 minutes. Transylvania continued to apply pressure in the first overtime period, recording four shots while holding Franklin without an attempt. Blanke and Thomas each forced saves from Franklin goalkeeper Emma Watson, but neither side found the breakthrough.
Just one minute into the second overtime period, Blanke delivered the decisive moment, scoring off an assist from Emersyn Cox at 101:00 to secure the 2-1 victory and send the Pioneers into the conference semifinals. Blanke and Held led Transylvania with four shots apiece, each recording a goal. Mooser and Cox contributed an assist each, while goalkeeper Carrie Stevens recorded three saves across 101 minutes.
Transylvania finished with a commanding 20-6 advantage in shots, including a 10-4 edge in shots on goal. The Pioneers also held a 7-4 advantage in corner kicks.
Transylvania University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.
