Mississippi State
LSU
No.9 State Soccer Hosts LSU In Sunday Night SEC Battle
September 28, 2024 | Soccer
STARKVILLE – Mississippi State soccer, now ranked No. 9 in the country, will take on LSU this Sunday at 6:30 p.m. CT at the MSU Soccer Field. The Bulldogs are fresh off an impressive 1-0 victory over then No. 11 Texas, marking their eighth win of the season, while the Tigers enter the contest after a commanding 3-1 win over Oklahoma. State is riding a ten-game home unbeaten streak, which includes eight straight wins on their home pitch. The stage is set for an exciting SEC showdown, with MSU looking to continue its remarkable defensive form and extend their success at home.
Mississippi State's defense has been stellar throughout the 2024 season, a cornerstone of their success. Maddy Anderson, one of the premier goalkeepers in the SEC, continues to shine for Mississippi State. Recently named SEC Defensive Player of the Week for the fifth time in her career, Anderson's performances in goal have been nothing short of exceptional. With back-to-back shutouts against Oklahoma and then No. 11 Texas, she has elevated her career shutout total to 32, placing her among the top goalkeepers in the NCAA this season. Anderson ranks second in the nation for both shutouts and goals-against average (0.22), while also sitting fourth in save percentage at .917. Her leadership in the net has been a driving force behind Mississippi State conceding only two goals in nine matches this season, showcasing her ability to control and organize the defense.
Senior defender Rylie Combs has been an instrumental figure in the Bulldogs' backline, earning a spot on TopDrawerSoccer's Team of the Week after helping the Bulldogs secure consecutive shutouts against two high-powered offenses. Combs has been a constant presence on the pitch for MSU, playing in 61 matches and logging over 4,600 minutes during her career. Her leadership and defensive prowess have helped the Bulldogs achieve eight shutouts in their first nine matches this season, setting a program record. Combs' contributions not only highlight her individual talent but also emphasize the defensive strength that has defined State's remarkable start to the season.
Senior midfielder Macey Hodge has been a linchpin for Mississippi State throughout her career, and this season is no different. Recognized as the 45th-best player in Division 1 by TopDrawerSoccer, Hodge has brought both skill and leadership to the Bulldogs' midfield. Her impact transcends individual accolades, contributing to MSU's historic team achievements, including their deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. Hodge has played in 82 matches, starting 81 of them, and logged an impressive 7,215 minutes since joining the team in 2020. Her combination of experience, technical ability, and leadership continues to be an essential factor in MSU's success.
Mississippi State and LSU come into this match with contrasting styles and strengths. MSU's disciplined defense has allowed just two goals all season, contributing to a 0.22 goals-against average, one of the best in the country. Offensively, MSU has netted 18 goals across their nine matches, averaging two goals per game. LSU, on the other hand, has scored 25 goals this season, averaging 2.27 goals per game, while allowing 1.36 goals against. The Bulldogs' defensive efficiency and the Tigers' attacking prowess promise an intriguing matchup, with both teams looking to gain an edge in SEC play.
Historically, LSU holds a significant advantage in the all-time series, leading 22-4-3. However, this is a new era for Mississippi State soccer, and the Bulldogs, entering the match with their highest national ranking in program history, will aim to narrow the gap. LSU comes into the contest with a 7-3-1 record and a balanced squad featuring captains Mollie Baker and Jaden Humbyrd, as well as standout ECU transfer Jazmin Ferguson. The Tigers have been a solid attacking team, but they will face one of their toughest defensive tests in Mississippi State.
Mississippi State has enjoyed significant success while wearing their white kit under head coach James Armstrong. Since his arrival, the Bulldogs are 29-9-7 when donning white, including a perfect 5-0 record this season. The team's dominance in their iconic white-on-white combination has become a symbol of their consistent performance at home, particularly during their current home unbeaten streak.
Players to Watch
For Mississippi State, Ally Perry, with four goals this season, has been a consistent threat up front. Maddy Anderson, with her .917 save percentage and 0.22 goals-against average, remains the backbone of the defense. On the LSU side, Ida Hermannsdottier leads the way with seven goals and will be a player to watch for the Tigers.
Match Coverage and Fan Promotions
Fans can follow the action live via StatBroadcast, and the match will also be streamed on SECN+. In addition, the first 200 fans in attendance will receive a special Sweet 16 pennant to commemorate Mississippi State's historic 2023 NCAA Tournament run, adding extra excitement to an already highly anticipated match.
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 –
