In South Florida, the Sun delivered a performance built on fight, structure, and belief. A tense first half saw both sides trade chances, with Isabella Kresche anchoring Tampa Bay through early pressure and the back line standing tall.
The breakthrough arrived in the seventy-third minute. Sydny Nasello stepped to the spot with calm conviction and buried her penalty down the middle to give the Sun a deserved lead. Her goal shifted the tempo and pushed Fort Lauderdale onto the back foot as Tampa Bay searched for the finish.
Deep into stoppage time, the hosts found an equalizer from close range, bringing the match level in the ninety-first minute. The final minutes were a test of resolve, and the Sun held firm to secure a point on the road.
Tonight showed effort, composure, and a team committed to the climb. The focus now turns to recovery and the work ahead as the Sun continue their rise.
Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown
“Proud of the way we fought tonight. We earned the lead in the second half through real hard work, and it’s frustrating to let it slip late. But this group has been trending in the right direction, and we’ll regroup quickly. The next win is coming.”
Sydny Nasello, Forward, On the Penalty
“In those few seconds, every emotion kind of hits you at once—pressure, adrenaline, excitement. But then it’s like everything just slows down and freezes. I just took a deep breath, blocked out the noise, and trusted myself in that moment.”
Isabella Kresche, Goalkeeper, on Tonight’s Effort
“The willigness to fight for the win every second.”
Next Home Match
The Sun return home for Military Appreciation Night on Saturday, November 22, presented by Tampa General Hospital, to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes. Fans can expect special recognitions and matchday tributes throughout the evening as Tampa Bay hosts Lexington SC.