Spartans Take Rowdies Cup With 1-0 Victory Over USF

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa claimed a 1-0 victory over cross-town opponent University of South Florida to claim the annual Rowdies Cup at Corbett Stadium.

"This was a great team win tonight," says head coach Adrian Bush. "100 percent goes to the players. Our staff has worked around the clock, the players have bought in, and it's games like this that let them know that they can play with anyone."

UT has now won two of the last three meetings against USF, also claiming a 1-0 victory in 2012. The Bulls were victorious in last season's matchup, winning 2-1.

Sophomore Jason Collister drew a penalty kick with under five minutes remaining in the game, as transfer Keith Francisco connected on the goal to give the Spartans a 1-0 lead.

Freshman Christian Knight started in goal, and played the entire game in his first collegiate shutout. Knight finished with six saves.

"This result means a lot to these seniors and I want to remind them, our number one goal is not to win the Rowdies Cup," states Bush. "Our goal is to be playing in December. We will continue to put in the work."

UT will open its 2014 season on Sept. 4 against Carson-Newman College at 7:30 p.m., at Pepin Stadium. The Spartans look to be at full strength for the opener as six players expect to be cleared for the opener.