USF goalkeeper Chris Blais came up with a save in the seventh round of penalty kicks to secure USF's place in the final eight of the College Cup over New Mexico.
The two teams played 110 minutes of scoreless soccer, with USF producing most of the scoring opportunities for both teams. USF controlled possession and had the better looks at goal in the first half, but some faulty passing in the defensive end gave New Mexico its best chances of the game until late. Both Blais and UNM keeper Victor Rodriguez came up with big saves.
Both teams had a chance to win it late. USF's Dom Dwyer mis-hit what would have been a spectacular scissor kick in the 88th minute. UNM's James Rogers went just wide in the 104th.
There was also some scuffling after the game ended, after which New Mexico players Rodriguez and Rogers were both red carded. We await a full account of what happened, but apparently it started when Rodriguez got caught up in the Bulls' victory celebration. No USF players were carded.
USF will play at Creighton next weekend. Fellow Big East teams Louisville and UConn also made the final eight with wins today. A full bracket is here.