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CLEVELAND, Tenn. – When Lee University hosts Valdosta State University in the quarterfinal round of the Gulf South Conference Soccer Championship at the Ray Conn Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon (1 p.m.), there will be no ties!
Record for Ties in Season
The Lady Flames finished GSC play with a 6-2-4 record, resulting in a 6-4-6 total for the regular season. This marks a new Lee women’s soccer record with six ties in a single season, the most in school history. Last year’s team had four ties, while the 2022 club had five.
The No Overtime Rule
First-year Coach Lee Hughes mentioned that although they dominated some games that ended in ties, not having overtimes during the regular season may have impacted the results. However, the team created enough opportunities to potentially secure wins within regular play time.
Using Deep Roster
Coach Hughes emphasized the importance of managing a deep roster to maintain player freshness throughout the season. With eleven players playing in all 16 games, the team consists of a mix of seniors, graduate students, juniors, sophomores, and freshmen, led by the coaching staff.
Defense Led by Veterans
The defense led by seniors Katie Wilson and Jordan Blair, juniors Avery Sides, and goalkeeper Abby Whitcomb has allowed only 15 goals in 16 games.
Some Luck in Scoring
While acknowledging the role of luck in scoring, Coach Hughes believes in creating opportunities. The team has generated good scoring chances in their ties and aims to improve their finishing.
Working Hard
The coaching staff has been pushing midfielders and forwards to enhance their attacking game. Players like Grace Berry, Jordan Blair, Avery Sides, Alaysia Nye, and Isabella Valentine have contributed to the team’s 18 goals this season.
Looking at Meetings with VSU
Reflecting on their previous match against Valdosta State, Coach Hughes identified missed opportunities that could have altered the game’s outcome. He expressed excitement about facing them again.
Reaching the Semifinals
Coach Hughes emphasized progress and improvement, regardless of the season outcome. The team is focused on getting better each day and is eager for the upcoming match.
Free Admission
Thanks to Hardees, Sunday’s game offers free admission.
Championship Information
The 2024 Gulf South Conference Women’s Soccer Championship will feature quarterfinals on November 10, with the top four-seeds hosting. Semifinals and championship matches will be held at the Huntsville Sports Complex on November 15 and 17, respectively.
TICKETS
Quarterfinal match tickets can be obtained through the host school. Semifinals and championship tickets at John Hunt Park are available via vivenu.
WATCH LIVE
The GSC tournament matches can be streamed on FloFC or the FloSports app with a subscription.
