The Arkansas Razorbacks’ pursuit of their first SEC title will have to wait after a tough semifinal loss to No. 21 Texas, where a golden goal by Lauren Lapomarda in the 109th minute sealed their fate. Razorbacks’ goalkeeper Keegan Smith made an effort to push the ball over the bar but couldn’t prevent the game-winner.
In his 13 seasons, Arkansas coach Colby Hale is still seeking his first SEC tournament championship, despite seven appearances in the final.
Arkansas initially took the lead in the 17th minute with a goal by Kennedy Ball, who struck a clean shot into the top right corner through heavy traffic.
However, an own goal in the 40th minute gave Texas an equalizer after Jailyn Brownlee’s attempted clearance ended up deflecting into Arkansas’s net.
The Razorbacks had ample opportunities to reclaim the lead but couldn’t get past Texas goalkeeper Mia Justus, who made 14 saves, including a critical 1-on-1 stop against Bella Field late in regulation.
Arkansas also experienced some misfortune when a potential go-ahead goal in the second half was called off after video review showed a slight deflection by Ava Tankersley from an offsides position.
Now, Arkansas awaits its NCAA Tournament placement, with the selection show set for 3 p.m. on Monday, streaming on NCAA.com.
