Ole Miss Soccer Secures First Win of Season with 2-1 Victory Over UAB

OXFORD, Miss. – Ole Miss soccer earned its first win of the 2025 campaign on Thursday night, defeating UAB 2-1 in front of 255 fans at the Ole Miss Soccer Stadium. Katie Ramsden and Evie Ewing provided the goals as the Rebels (1-1-0) held off a second-half push from the Blazers (0-2-1) according to reports from OxfordMSNews.com

First-Half Action

Ole Miss jumped ahead early in the 15th minute when Cassidy Kuehne drew a foul in the box. Ramsden, a sophomore defender, converted the penalty kick with a strike into the top corner for her second goal in as many games.

UAB answered quickly in the 21st minute. Ava Mills scored her first goal of the season on a set piece, assisted by Maia Sirota, leveling the match at 1-1 going into halftime.

Second-Half Breakthrough

Just two minutes after the break, the Rebels’ aggressive high press paid off. Ewing intercepted a cross in midfield and carried the ball into the box before beating Blazers goalkeeper Leah Parsons for the game-winning goal in the 47th minute.

Head coach Matt Rouse credited his team’s defensive energy for creating scoring opportunities.

“We want to be a team that can high press and turn teams over in their end, which leads to transition chances to attack,” Rouse said. “To see that play out tonight is something the players should be super proud of.”

Defensive Stand and Key Performances

Freshman goalkeeper Sidney O’Billovich earned her first career win, playing all 90 minutes and making four saves. Parsons tallied three saves for UAB.

The Rebels outshot the Blazers 21-14, their highest single-game total since September 2024, and held a 4-2 edge in corner kicks. Ramsden and Ewing each finished with a goal, while Kuehne led Ole Miss in attempts with four shots. UAB’s Jette Zimmer tested the Rebels’ defense with four shots, including three on goal.

Physical Contest

Both teams played physically, combining for 21 fouls. Three yellow cards were issued: UAB’s Mia Leath (43’), UAB’s Sirota (52’), and Ole Miss’ Peyton Dyess (84’).

What’s Next

The Rebels will look to carry their momentum into the weekend as they travel to Hattiesburg for a non-conference matchup at Southern Miss. Kickoff is set for Sunday, August 24 at 1 p.m., with the game airing on ESPN+.