Women’s soccer drops final game before conference play

The final non-conference game for Georgia State women’s soccer ended in defeat as the team lost to UT Martin by a score of 2-0.

The game began with both sides playing well and both teams creating early chances from corner kicks. The match remained level until a defensive miscommunication in the 41st minute from two Panther defenders gifted the Seahawks a goal.

The two defenders collided and Seahawks forward Rianna Jarrett collected the ball in the box before squaring to a teammate who beat Georgia State goalkeeper Brie Haynes in a one-on-one situation.

The Panthers had a chance to pull the game level before halftime, after Suzanne Arafa made a dribble to beat two Seahawks defenders, but her shot was right at the goalkeeper.

The Panthers came out in the second half pushing for the equalizer, but were unable to come up with a goal. After the first two minutes, they recorded three shots, none of which found the back of the net.

Despite the Panthers’ pressing, the Seahawks put the game past the Panthers in the 78th minute. A quick counterattack on the right flank led to a low cross that found UT Martin forward Ashlie Watson in the box to slot home.

“All in all, we improved in the areas that we have been working on but we have to put away the opportunities that we get,” Head Coach Derek Leader said.

Georgia State opens conference play on the road against UL Lafayette on Friday.