Nov. 14, 2009

Baton Rouge, LA - Final stats

The University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions, champions of the Southwestern Athletic Conference, fell in the first round of the NCAA soccer playoffs 7-0 at 10th ranked LSU.

"It was fantastic to be here at LSU. We deserved to be here with winning our conference," said UAPB head coach Robert Mazza. "The SEC is going to produce players that are at different levels.

LSU is so much quicker and technical compared to teams in the SWAC. Our team has really matured at the right moment this year. Our girls fought out there and tried their best and there really isn't much more than I can ask for."

UAPB finished the season 12-7-4.

Despite the loss, UAPB is set for another big season next year as they return 16 of 17 players, including SWAC player of the year Jade West - who is only a sophomore.

"We won our conference and have a young team, so I feel we are getting good experience and the future is looking bright for our team," said UAPB midfielder Rachel Harker.