Racers Fall in Road Contest With Missouri

Thursday, September 5

Columbia, Mo.

7 P.M.

Murray State

2-3-0

Missouri

5-0-0

Murray St.

Missouri

Photo by: Dan Hasko

9/6/2019 12:09:00 AM | Women's Soccer

Box Score Photo Gallery Box Score (PDF)

Murray State women's soccer concluded their two-game road trip against Missouri on Thursday evening. While the Racers put together a thrilling comeback after facing a first-half deficit, they came up just short in the end – falling to the Tigers 2-1, at Audrey J. Walton Soccer Stadium in Columbia, Missouri.

Despite senior Miyah Watford creating early chances with a pair of shots in the opening stages, the Tigers were the first team on the scoreboard when Julissa Cisneros finished her opportunity in the 12^th minute of the match.

The next 30 minutes would be a physical battle that saw both teams turn in impressive defensive shifts as there were just four combined shots on target through the first half of play.

Trailing 1-0 entering the second half of the evening, The Racers reclaimed momentum when Symone Cooper equalized for Murray State in the 55^th minute. Abby Jones would slot a ball back towards the top of the penalty area that ended with a one-time finish from Cooper across the right side of goal to bring the game level at 1-1.

With both sides exchanging more offensive chances through the final half hour of the match, the tie would not be broken until the 80^th minute, when the Tigers were awarded a penalty kick for a handling decision on an entry ball from the right side. Converting the penalty would be Missouri's Madison Lewis as she put her side in front 2-1 with just 10 minutes left to play.

The Racers would have a promising opportunity to even the game with just six minutes left to go when they were fouled just outside the Missouri penalty area, but the ensuing Abby Jones free kick would be saved. The Tigers were able to cling to a one-goal margin for the remaining minutes to escape with a 2-1 victory as Missouri, who received top-25 votes in the most recent United Soccer Coaches Poll, remained unbeaten in 2019.

"I was really proud of the group. I love the way we competed. This a tough place and Missouri is a fantastic team. To come back out at halftime, get the goal back, and really put them on the back foot – I really thought we were the best team in the second half," said MSU head coach Matt Lodge.

The Racers and Tigers both had an even five shots on goal, while Murray State recorded 11 total shots overall.

Symone Cooper's goal in the 55^th was her first of the season, while the assist from Abby Jones gives her three points (one goal, one assist) to open the 2019 campaign.

The Racers will be back in action on Sunday when they return home to host Ole Miss at Cutchin Field. Kickoff is slated for 2:00 p.m.