WHO: USF (2-1) vs. Georgia (3-1)
WHAT: UCF Tournament, Orlando
WHEN: 5 p.m. Friday
By TOM ZEBOLD
USF Senior Writer
TAMPA - The Bulls' offense was explosive in their road opener and head coach Denise Schilte-Brown hopes for more fireworks away from Corbett Soccer Stadium.
The USF women's soccer team continues its five-game road trip with a pair of contests at the UCF Tournament this weekend. The Bulls face Georgia on Friday at 5 p.m. and get Dartmouth at noon on Sunday in Orlando.
"The focus is us. For the most part, we know the success lies in us and how we play," Schilte-Brown said. "I think our approach will be fearless, and I think you're going to see some more dynamic movement off the ball, which could really cause them some problems."
USF's offense kicked things into high gear the last time out in a 3-0 victory at Indiana on Aug. 24. Junior forward Sharla Passariello scored a pair of goals and freshman Ana Paola Lopez Yrigoyen capped things off with her first goal as Bull. Passariello has three goals in three regular season games after scoring three times in the preseason.
"I think you saw a lot in Dom Dwyer last year, where you saw kind of a key player, but he was a team guy. We're seeing a lot of great qualities in Sharla that way," Schilte-Brown said. "Any time you get a goal-scorer that's willing to put in the hard work defensively, especially at the end of games, there is a lot of value there."
The Bulls also have a star shining brightly on defense with freshman keeper Christiane Endler posting consecutive shutouts and 13 saves. Endler beat out three other keepers for the starting gig after logging in a lot of experience on the international level.
"She got those opportunities in the two games and has maximized her opportunities," Schilte-Brown said. "She has so much experience under her belt. When you play the United States, Brazil and some of the best teams in the world, I think it adds a little poise to your game."
USF wraps up its road trip at the College of Charleston Cup next weekend before heading home to Corbett Stadium to host Pittsburgh in the Big East opener on Sunday, Sept. 16. Purchase tickets HERE.
"I really like the way the girls are playing. I think we have a deep squad, a talented squad, and I think the fans are going to love it," Schilte-Brown said.
