Spartan Soccer: Conference Berth Secured
A 2-1 second-half reversal over Nova Southeastern gives the University of Tampa a 14-point total in the Sunshine State Conference.
By Adewale Rousseau ·
The University of Tampa men’s soccer team secured a berth in the 2026 Sunshine State Conference Tournament after defeating Nova Southeastern 2-1 on Saturday night at Pepin Stadium. The result lifts the Spartans to a 5-5-4 overall record and a 4-3-2 mark within the conference, placing their point total at 14.
Nova Southeastern opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Erik Krohnstad finished a chance assisted by Oscar Fernandez. Tampa goalkeeper Alex Hare made two saves before halftime to keep the deficit at one goal. The defensive performance shifted dramatically after the break, as the Spartans prevented the Sharks from registering a single shot attempt in the second half.
Tommaso Polidori converted a penalty kick in the 47th minute to equalize, marking his fourth goal of the season. Tampa maintained offensive control, outshooting their opponents 8-0 in the second period and holding an 11-5 advantage in total shots. Tassilo Koerner scored the winner in the 76th minute with an unassisted strike following a corner kick.
Polidori received a red card in the final minute, leaving the team short-handed for the closing stages. The Spartan defense held the lead until the final whistle, with Hare earning the victory. Mason Clark, William Waters, and Taka Onoguchi provided offensive support during the match.
The Spartans conclude their 2026 regular season on Wednesday, October 28. They will travel to Boca Raton to face Lynn University at 5:00 p.m.
Source: WHBO
