DELAND,Fla.- The Dolphins fell to Stetson in their quarterfinal matchup Saturday night in Owsley B. Frazier Stadium.   

HOW IT HAPPENED 

In the previous regular season match, these two universities couldn't outperform each other, resulting in the Dolphins earning their third point of the year. After goalkeeper Christian Sekanina heroically saved a penalty kick, midfielder Jeppe Jordoson saved the game with a left-footed shot from the center of Stetson's 18-yard box. However, tonight's match told a different story as JU battled hard throughout the night but ended in a late 2-0 victory for Stetson. 

 The match began with Stetson attempting to score early in the first half. Gabriel Toro aimed for a low center shot that was saved by JU's keeper, Mike Zolnierczyk. Minutes later, Forward Mason Duval took charge, launching a low left goal that was stopped by Stetson's keeper, Nicolò Radaelli. Duval continued to press the attack, taking the next three shots for the Dolphins. Both teams engaged in multiple throw-ins and free kicks as they vied for control of the game. Although the half ended in a 0-0 draw, the play progressed, Taurayi Tugwete and Andres Perez De Gracia attempted to take a late first-half lead. Both JU and the Hatters fired numerous shots in the half, with JU attempting seven shots to put one on goal, while Stetson took nine to register a single shot on goal. 

As the second half opened, Stetson made early attempts to score again. JU Forward Olivier Correa responded, but his shot was blocked before it could find the back of the net. Stetson maintained control of possession early in the second half, but it didn't matter as Zolnierczyk made two crucial back-to-back saves for the Dolphins in the 65th minute. Play progressed with both teams battling hard to preserve their post season. In the 77th minute, Stetson finally broke the deadlock. Alvaro Gabancho struck a high left shot into the net, giving Stetson a 1-0 lead. Shortly after, Stetson found the back of the net again, with Afonso Conde finishing the Hatter attack. The remaining minutes of the match saw Jacksonville attempting to mount a comeback. However, Stetson's defense held strong, securing a victory. It was a memorable match with intense moments, and while Stetson emerged as the victor in the hard-fought contest, it didn't diminish the remarkable gameplay and season by the Dolphins. 

WHAT THEY SAID 

"I'm very proud of this group," said Head Coach Ali Simmons. "From the 5-year players to the transfers and freshmen. This was a collective effort, with 23 players seeing the field this season. I feel very fortunate to have coached each one of them in my first season. They've earned the opportunity to play another game and have set the standard for the future. The support from the staff and administration has consistently been first-class, and we are fortunate to represent this university. The future is bright. Go Dolphins!" 

ADDITIONAL NOTES 

• Jacksonville took 13 shots on the night 

• Mike Zolnierczyk finished with four saves 

• Mason Duval led the group with six shots on the night