JACKSON, Tenn. – Union University scored two early goals and then held Lee University to only two shots on goal in posting a 2-0 victory over the Lady Flames in a Gulf South Conference contest that was played on the Smith Memorial Soccer Complex on Sunday afternoon.
The win improved Union’s record to 7-2-2 in conference play and 8-4-2 overall while Lee dropped to 6-2-3 and 6-4-5. The Lady Flames will close out regular-season play when they travel to Valdosta State University on Wednesday for a 1 p.m. contest.
The Lady Bulldogs wasted no time getting on the board. Claire Maxon picked up an assist from Sophie Walsh and scored at the 10:39 mark in the opening half. The second and final score of the contest came at 18:19 when Rebekah Jackson tallied an unassisted goal.
The Lady Flames actually out-shot the home club 11-9, but Union had five shots on goal. Lee was able to take two shots in the opening half and had nine shots in the second frame. On the other hand, the Lady Bulldogs used a balanced attack with four shots in the opening 45 minutes and five shots in the second half.
Lee’s Jordan Blair had a shot on goal at the 40:15 mark in the first half that was saved by LaVallee. The Lady Flames other shot on goal came in the second half (76:05) and was fired by Isabella Valentine. For the game, Grace Berry had three shots, Katie Wilson two, Avery Sides one and Alaysia Nye the other shot not on goal.
Abby Whitcomb had three saves and allowed two goals in being charged with the loss. Lady Bulldog keeper Kristin LaVallee was credited with two saves in claiming the victory. Lee had an advantage in corner kicks with four while Union had just one. The Lady Bulldogs were whistled for 11 fouls and Lee 10.
Despite the loss, the Lady Flames clinched hone field for the GSC Tournament. Lee will be the fourth seed in the upcoming tournament and will be hosting the fifth seed Valdosta State on Sunday, November 10 at 1 PM at the Ray Conn Sports Complex.
Coach Lee Hughes’ Thoughts:
“Honestly we controlled the game. Two long distance shots that weren’t closed down is what won the game. We had enough chances in the second half to tie it up. We didn’t give enough to the game to earn the right to win it though and that’s the most disappointing thing.”
