LAKELAND, Fla. — The Southeastern University women's soccer team secured a 2-1 victory over St. Thomas University on Wednesday night, with Momo Sato delivering the game-winning goal in the 87th minute at SEU Soccer Field.

The Fire improved to 12-3-1 overall and 6-1 in conference play, closing out their regular-season home schedule with a late push to earn the win.

SEU struck first in the 11th minute when Rebecca Laface finished a pass from Sara Irurozki to give the Fire a 1-0 advantage. Irurozki created several opportunities throughout the opening half, recording eight shots and four on target to lead the Fire's offensive attack.

The Fire carried its one-goal lead into halftime and continued to apply pressure after the break. The team nearly doubled their advantage just two minutes into the second half, but Irurozki's shot struck the crossbar.

St. Thomas defender Sierra Olivo received a red card giving the Fire a numerical advantage in the 49th minute. Despite playing with 10 players, the Bobcats continued to challenge SEU and found the equalizer in the 74th minute through Julia Ezcurra, leveling the match at 1-1.

With the game tied late, SEU continued to push forward in search of the deciding goal. That effort paid off in the 87th minute when Sato found the back of the net for her ninth goal of the season, restoring the Fire's lead and securing the 2-1 victory.

The group finished with 14 shots, including nine on target, while earning six corner kicks. Irurozki led the offensive effort with eight shots, while Laface contributed a goal and an assist. Goalkeeper Madison Songer played all 90 minutes and recorded two saves.