THIBODAUX, La. — Southern Miss soccer defeated Nicholls 2-1 Thursday at Thibodaux Regional Sports Complex, closing its non-conference schedule with a winning streak of four matches. The Golden Eagles are now 3-2-2 overall and 0-0 in Sun Belt Conference play, according to school officials.
Ava Bynes scored her fourth goal of the season in the 27th minute after Nicholls opened the scoring in the 27th minute. Olivia Tribolet netted the game-winner in the 56th minute, helping Southern Miss secure the victory. The Colonels took an early lead when Alyssa Wheeler scored in the 27th minute, but Bynes responded quickly. Maiko Kikuchi assisted Bynes on her goal, leveling the score at 1-1.
Nicholls outshot Southern Miss 17-11 and had nine shots on goal, but Golden Eagles goalkeeper Logan McGruder made six saves to keep her team in front. Tribolet’s goal came after she hit the crossbar in the 50th minute, then scored six minutes later with help from Vail Wartes. The Colonels pressed late but could not find an equalizer, as McGruder made key saves in the 76th and 80th minutes.
Southern Miss will open Sun Belt Conference play against James Madison on Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. at the Marshall Bell Track & Field/Soccer Complex. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website and social media accounts.
