Huskers Open Spring with Positive Performance in Atlanta

Atlanta, Ga. - The Nebraska soccer team opened its 2010 spring season Saturday in Atlanta with a pair of 2009 NCAA Tournament qualifiers, tying Georgia (1-1) and falling to Florida State (3-2). Alexa Cardona headlined the Huskers' opening day of competition in the 10-match spring schedule with two assists.

In the first contest of the day, Nebraska and Georgia fought to a 1-1 tie. Jordan Jackson accounted for the Huskers' goal on an assist from Cardona. Emma Stevens played all 60 minutes in the net, recording four saves for the Big Red.

The Huskers performed well in their second match, pushing 2009 NCAA quarterfinalist Florida State to the limit in a 3-2 defeat. Molly Thomas and Blair Slapper each netted goals for Nebraska on assists from Bri Badje and Cardona, while Tara Macdonald and Jessica Mills split time at goalkeeper. Each match was 60 minutes long.

Thomas is one of two returning All-Big 12 selections for the Huskers in 2010. The other - Morgan Marlborough - was not in action Saturday, as she traveled to Spain with the U.S. Under-20 Women's National Team this week. The Americans went 2-0-1 at the La Manga Cup against Under-23 national teams, defeating Norway and England and tying Germany.

The Huskers continue their spring schedule next Saturday, March 6 in Tempe, Arizona, taking on Arizona State and BYU.