Climax Close-Up
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- In less than 24 hours, the Sabercats Women's Soccer Team faces off against Randall University for the 2020 NCCAA DII National Championship.
These are uncharted waters for both of these teams, so you can be sure the eagerness to write some history will be at a high for both. It's slated to be a dogfight.
OVERVIEW
- Matchup: #1 Maranatha vs #3 Randall
- Time: 3:00 p.m. EST
- Venue: Austin-Tindall Sports Complex
- Location: Kissimmee, Fla.
- Event: NCCAA DII National Championship
- Records: MBU (5-5-1), RU (3-1-1)
HOW TO FOLLOW
LIVE VIDEO (PPV)
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MARANATHA
Those that know Maranatha's recent postseason history will know that this game is not just a chance to win a title - it's a chance to reverse the regional heartbreak they've had for the last three years. With the bitterness of the regional losses still fresh in their minds, the Sabercats are stepping onto the soil of Austin-Tindall Stadium with a point to prove, a script to rewrite, and a chance at capturing the first national title in program history.
To get here, Maranatha defeated Faith Baptist 1-0 in the NCCAA North Region Championship, paving the way for their first Nationals appearance since 2016. Then yesterday, the Sabercats held off #4 Toccoa Falls 2-1 to get to the championship game - their first appearance in the national finale since 2015.
RANDALL
Randall has been to the national tournament every year since 2015, but this is the first time they have reached the championship game. Experience? Sure, it's technically on their side, but then again - this is the first time they have actually played for the title.
The Saints come into the game after winning the Southwest Region Championship and defeating Johnson University Tennessee in penalty kicks Thursday night, so their emotional and physical battery needed a day off to recharge for the championship.
THE SERIES
The teams have met just twice - once in 2015 and again in 2016 - both times at NCCAA Nationals. Maranatha won 5-0 in 2015 en route to a national runner-up finish, then Randall had the last laugh, winning in penalty kicks in the national third-place game.
THE STAKES
Both teams have endured significant disappointment to get here, and both teams have a chance to capture the first national title in program history.
