The No. 8 Florida soccer team kicked off the 2015 season on Friday night with a 2-0 victory over No. 17 University of Central Florida.
Coach Becky Burleigh began her 21st season at the helm of the Florida program by improving the Gators’ all-time record against the Knights to 13-3-1.
Redshirt junior goalkeeper Valerie Tysinger tallied her first career start for the Gators (1-0) in Orlando and recorded her a clean sheet. Tysinger had two saves.
The teams were deadlocked until the 32nd minute when freshman Mayra Pelayo scored her first career goal for the Gators.
Pelayo’s 22-yard strike opened up the field for the Gators as they took eight shots in the first half.
Pelayo is the 12th UF freshman to score in her collegiate debut.
The Gators did not have to face a shot on goal during the first half as they took the 1-0 lead into the locker room for halftime.
During the second half, the Knights (0-1) came out strong pushing the envelope and forcing the Gators defense to get into the action.
The Knights took 10 shots in the second half but only two were on frame.
The Gators doubled their lead in the 61st minute on a header by Savannah Jordan off an assist by Pamela Begić. The goal was Jordan’s 42nd career goal for the Gators.
Florida continues its early season road trip Sunday in Columbus, Ohio, against Ohio State at noon. It will be the first ever meeting between the two programs.
Follow Ryan Summers on Twitter @RyanSummers18.
UF midfielder Mayra Pelayo hugs teammate Kristen Cardano after Pelayo scored the equalizer during Florida's 2-1 win against Troy in an exhibition match on Aug. 11, 2015, at the soccer practice field at Donald R. Dizney Stadium.
