KSU Battles Back, but MTSU’s Early Strikes Prove Too Much
It was a tale of two halves in Sunday’s showdown at Dean A. Hayes Soccer Field, but despite a valiant second-half surge, Kennesaw State couldn’t quite close the gap, falling 4-2 to a red-hot Middle Tennessee State.
“We didn’t bring our best in the first half, and MTSU capitalized,” said head coach Chris Cahill. “But I’m proud of the grit we showed in the second half. It’s a tough lesson, but we’ll build on this and our seniors will lead the way as we prepare for New Mexico State.”
First Half: MTSU Dominates Early
MTSU came out flying, putting KSU’s defense on high alert from the first whistle. Charlee Bernal made a stunning leaping save to deny a Blue Raiders goal, but MTSU kept the pressure on. Their relentless attack paid off with 13 minutes left in the half, as they broke through on the left flank and found the back of the net for a 1-0 lead.
Just minutes later, a scramble in the box led to another MTSU goal, sending the Owls into the break down 2-0.
Second Half: KSU Fights Back
KSU came out of the locker room determined to flip the script. Just two minutes into the second half, Anabel Orozco flicked a shot on goal, but MTSU’s keeper made a diving save to keep the Owls off the board. Unfortunately, 30 seconds later, MTSU struck again, stretching their lead to 3-0.
But KSU wasn’t about to roll over. With 26 minutes left, Tianna Rivera ignited the comeback with a beautiful lob shot over the MTSU keeper, thanks to a brilliant assist from Orozco. That goal marked Rivera’s fourth in three games, making her the hottest scorer for the Owls in recent memory.
MTSU quickly responded, scoring off a deflection to regain their three-goal cushion. Yet, KSU’s fighting spirit continued to shine. With 15 minutes left, Rivera calmly slotted home a penalty kick, bringing the score to 4-2 and giving the Owls a glimmer of hope.
Despite a furious push in the final minutes, the comeback fell short as the Owls couldn’t break through MTSU’s defense again.
Key Performances:
– Tianna Rivera has been on fire, scoring four goals in her last three games, the most by any Owl in a three-game stretch since 2021.
– Rivera now leads the team with five goals on the season, surpassing her previous career-best.
– Orozco recorded her second assist in three games, continuing to be a key playmaker.
Up Next:
The Owls continue their road stretch, heading west to face New Mexico State next Sunday at 2 p.m. ET. KSU will be looking to bounce back and continue their push in conference play!
