The LSU soccer team (3-2-1) could not break a scoreless tie against Stephen F. Austin (2-2-1) Monday, despite a myriad of offensive chances throughout the double overtime match.
“In terms of how we played tonight, I’m pretty happy with the progress and the development of the kids,” LSU coach Brian Lee said. “We’ve just got to get better on a few things in the final third and in front of goal and good things are going to happen.”
Offensively, the Tigers had a frustrating night with flashes of on-point combination passes and penetration passes through the defense, however LSU could not finish shots, especially in the box.
“We need to be consistent,“ said junior midfielder Natalia Gomez-Junco. “There was a huge difference between this game and [Texas Christian University]. I think we just have to focus on being consistent and playing with this intensity and toughness.”
Despite not putting one in the back of the net, the Tigers had a season-best 26 shots on the night, including 10 shots on goal. Most of LSU’s best offensive possessions ended with a shot sailing over the crossbar or narrowing missing the frame wide.
LSU’s best opportunity came in the 70th minute when Gomez-Junco lined up for a penalty kick. The Ladyjacks’ senior keeper Morgan Glick made a beautiful diving save to her left to keep the match scoreless.
Although the Tigers could not convert any of their chances into goals, the team’s development as a unit gives them confidence as they head into a four-game road stretch.
“I would say our confidence is boosted because we have been coming off some games that we weren’t playing our best and as a team we know that,” said sophomore forward Summer Clarke. “This game we were getting the chances…We were getting the ball moving and getting shots off and that’s what is important for us.”
LSU’s back line looked more comfortable and made key stops throughout the game. Led by sophomore Megan Lee, the defenders were more involved in the attack, which opened up space for midfielders and forwards exploit.
“I thought that was probably their best game yet this year, Lee said. “Alexis Urch has come leaps and bounds. Jordane Carvery hit the ground running from day one. Tori Sample has been a nice one for them to lean on. And then, we’ve really rotated left backs with Megan Lee, Gracie Campbell, and Ella Williams early in the year. We haven’t totally settled on the back line yet.”
Freshman keeper Lily Alfeld made six saves on the night, tying her total against TCU. Her command of the defense was crucial in defending against Stephen F. Austin’s set pieces and free kicks near the box.
The development of the team was evident in the match, despite the final score.
“We were way more in tune, “Gomez-Junco said. “We pressured more as team. Overall, we were all around the field. Everyone worked way harder.”

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Zoe Geauthreaux

LSU freshman forward Jorian Baucom (5) knocks over a member of the opposing team while leaning in for the kick Monday, September 8, 2014 during the Tigers' game against Stephan F. Austin in LSU Soccer Stadium.