Box Score Starkville, Miss. ? The UALR Trojans (1-3) couldn't pick up their second consecutive victory in the Bulldog Classic as they dropped a 1-0 decision to the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles (3-0).
A goal by Sarah McFadden off of a free-kick in the 16th minute proved to be enough for the Golden Eagles as the Trojans were unable to slip anything by USM goalkeeper Holly Cox who had five saves.
“We didn't start off the game very well,” said Trojan head coach Freddy Delgado. “We played kind of lackadaisical in the first half and they capitalized on a free kick. We did play very well in the second half but in the end we dug ourselves in a hole and couldn't find our way out.”
UALR did manage to get off 17 shots with five being on goal. Grace Rich had five shots with one on goal and Alex Rustad had three shots with two of those being on line.
“Alex Rustad gave us a lot of attacking power but we just couldn't break through and get the equalizer we needed,” said Delgado.
The Trojans, who defeated Mississippi State in the first round on Friday, will really give UALR something to build on going into the home opener next week, however.
“We played as close to our potential in any of our games so far on Friday,” said Delgado. “We have had a problem putting back-to-back games together and that just comes with experience and age. Hopefully we will solve those problems before conference play.”
Also, players like Taylor Gabbert, a freshman midfielder, are starting to show signs of improvement that will help the team.
“Taylor is really starting to come out of her shell,” said Delgado. “She had a good overall weekend and is getting better and better with every game.
The Trojans will be back in action next Friday at 7 p.m. for their home opener against Miami. The match promises to be another tough match that will help prepare the Trojans for Sun Belt Conference Play.
“Our win on Friday over Mississippi State really proved to ourselves and everyone else that we can play with anyone,” said Delgado. “We have had good matches against Memphis and Mississippi State and I think we are going to have a good game for our home opener.”
