NAUGDOCHES, Texas — Jackson State women’s soccer held a one-goal lead at halftime but was unable to hold on, losing to Stephen F. Austin 4-2 on Sunday at SFA Soccer Field.
The Tigers (1-6-0) scored twice in the first half, firing 13 shots and leading 2-1 at the break. Ryanne Hawthorn-Harper scored her third goal of the season in the 24th minute, and Sarah Portis added her second in the 27th, off assists from Elon Sheffield and Kianah Farmer, respectively.
Stephen F. Austin responded after halftime, leveling the match in the 52nd minute on a goal from Savanna Oberholtzer. The Ladyjacks took the lead in the 78th minute with a goal from Alyce Chappelle, then extended their advantage with another goal in the 89th from Chappelle.
Jackson State’s best chance to equalize came in the 79th minute when Asia Wilson’s shot was saved by SFA goalkeeper Savannah Epting. Hawthorn-Harper led the Tigers with five shots, including two on goal, while Portis scored her second goal of the season. Sheffield and Farmer each tallied an assist.
Goalkeeper Taylor Osborn played all 90 minutes, making seven saves against 23 shots for the Tigers. Jackson State finished with 16 shots overall, including six on goal, and all three of their first-half corner kicks.
Head coach Dr. Ted Flogaites attributed the loss to areas where the team can improve. “The team has been great,” he said. “It’s on me to make us better in some areas, and I’m currently not doing enough as a coach or am not helping in a more efficient manner.”
The Tigers will host Austin Peay at the JSU Soccer Field on Friday at 3 p.m.
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