Suzuki nets a hat-trick in Lady Tigers 5-3 win

On Saturday, Cowley  College sophomore Hina Suzuki celebrated her birthday by scoring three goals in the No. 12-ranked Cowley College women's soccer team's 5-3 win at Seward County.

Suzuki leads the Jayhawk Conference in goals (12) and points (25).

"Hina is so aggressive and disciplined and did a good job of taking advantage of Seward's defense," Cowley head coach Roberto dos Santos said.

The victory, Cowley's third in a row, improves the Lady Tigers' record to 7-2-1 on the season. Seward (2-9-3) falls to 1-8-2 in conference play.

Sophomore Evelyn Borges started the scoring with her fifth goal of the season only five minutes into Saturday's contest. Suzuki would add the first of her three goals midway through the opening half to increase Cowley's lead to 2-0.

Seward would pull within 2-1 when Dayra Dinarte scored off a penalty kick. However, Suzuki would head in a free kick to cap the scoring in the first half.

Suzuki would complete the hat trick by heading in a corner kick with 30:34 left to play.

Freshman Anna Linsler increased Cowley's lead to 5-1 after scoring her second goal of the season.

Seward would get a pair of late goals from Natoya Atkinson, but it was not enough as Cowley went on to the 5-3 road win.

"The girls understood the importance of playing strong from the beginning," dos Santos said. "The first half, despite playing against a strong wind we were able to capitalize on opportunities and finish with the 3-1 lead. In the second half, we came out strong and scored two more goals. We made several substitutions, which changed the chemistry of the team, and we conceded two goals. Overall I am proud of how we faced the challenge and got the win."

Emma Shockley started in goal for the Lady Tigers and finished with three saves.

Cowley will attempt to improve to 6-1 at home when they host Dodge City on Wednesday at 5 p.m. The Conquistadors are 3-6-2 in the conference.

"Wednesday will be a tough game," dos Santos said. "We will gather together and defend our home turf."