Southland Conference play begins Friday for Sam Houston State University’s women soccer team as they take on Abilene Christian University in Abilene.
The Bearkats are searching to end their winless streak on the road, with a strong start their conference season. The team is 0-4-1 when not playing on home turf this season.
Giving up four goals to Southern Methodist University is only a small example of the issues SHSU has had defending. When on the road, the Bearkats have given up 10 goals in just five games.
Freshman Megan Bennett has led the Bearkats’ defense in the center back position. Freshman Miriah Hadley accompanies her in the back.
Inexperience has been a factor in the team’s struggles on defense.
Bennett leads the Bearkats defense with freshman Miriah Hadley accompanying her in the backfield.
“We were just a little disconnected with a little communication issues, and we need to move a little faster to be on the same page,” goalkeeper Kylie Hambleton said. “Young defense organization and communication is key to direction to keeping everyone on the same page.”
Experience will be needed to match up and keep the ball out of the Wildcat’s goal and assist leader, senior Andrea Carpenter. Carpenter will look to help the Wildcats preserve their season’s undefeated record.
Carpenter is coming into the game with six goals and four assists.
The Bearkats have struggled offensively is setting up formations to get the ball in the back of the net. Senior Tricia Mallory holds the lone goal for SHSU on the road.
Quality balls and attack from the wings will be needed if the Bearkats want to see their scoring drought come to an end.
The offense has produced only seven shots in their last game against SMU.
Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. Friday as the Bearkats’ try to defeat the Wildcats in Abilene.