Mississippi State
South Alabama
State Set To Face South Alabama In Sunday Soccer Action
August 31, 2024 | Soccer
STARKVILLE – State soccer welcomes the Jaguars of South Alabama for a Sunday meeting in a pivotal non-conference matchup at 1 p.m.Â
The Bulldogs enter the matchup on the heels of a 1-0 victory over Tennessee Tech on Senior Night and will aim to continue their strong start to the 2024 season. Mississippi State has shown resilience on both sides of the ball, allowing just two goals through five matches and boasting a balanced attack where eight different Bulldogs have found the back of the net.
On the other side of the pitch, South Alabama is coming off one of the best regular seasons in program history, boasting a 16-1-3 record and an undefeated 8-0-2 run that secured the Sun Belt Regular Season title. The Jaguars return 11 players from last year's squad, including Preseason Sun Belt All-Conference selections Amber Fortenberry, Monique Gray, and Irene Campo. With a blend of experience and fresh talent, they also welcome 15 newcomers, comprising 12 freshmen and four transfers. This season marks the beginning of the Chris Hennessey era in Mobile, following his successful nine-year tenure at Lee University, where he established himself as a top-tier coach.
A key player to watch for Mississippi State will be senior forward Aitana Martinez-Montoya, who scored the decisive goal against Tennessee Tech, her second of the season. She has been instrumental in the Bulldogs' attack, and her experience will be crucial against a well-organized South Alabama defense. Assists from Hannah Johnson and Kennedy Husbands in the last match highlight the depth and versatility of the Bulldogs' offensive options.
The Bulldogs hold a 9-5-1 advantage over the Jaguars all-time as the two squads battle to a tie in their meeting in Mobile in 2023.
In goal, Maddy Anderson continues to be a rock for Mississippi State, already adding to her school-record shutout tally this season. Anderson's leadership from the back has been a key factor in the Bulldogs' defensive solidity as she aims to keep the Jaguars at bay.
This matchup will be a test of endurance and strategy as both teams look to gain momentum heading into the heart of their respective seasons. Fans can expect a competitive and tightly contested game as Mississippi State aims to extend its unbeaten streak at home.Â
For the most up-to-date information on the Bulldogs, follow MSU women's soccer on X, like them on Facebook, and join them on Instagram by searching for "HailStateSoc."
– HailState.com –
