Mississippi State Hosts Louisiana in Key Sun Belt Soccer Match Thursday

Mississippi State will host Louisiana on Thursday at 5 p.m. CT at the MSU Soccer Field, marking the Bulldogs’ fourth and final game against a Sun Belt Conference West Division opponent this season, according to school officials.

The Bulldogs (5-0-0) aim to extend their undefeated streak and achieve several historic milestones. A win would be State’s 150th at home and tie the school record for the longest home non-conference unbeaten streak at 16 games, set from 1995 to 1998. It would also bring the Bulldogs within one victory of tying the school record for the longest non-conference winning streak, currently at 10 games.

Mississippi State’s offense has been effective this season, with a plus-13 goal differential — the second-highest in program history through five games and ranked No. 13 nationally, according to school sources. Hailey Johnson has contributed in all but one match, scoring or assisting on six of the team’s 15 goals. Forward Kati Anne Shepherd has added eight points in her first five games, and goalkeeper Jenny Harrison has posted two shutouts, ranking fourth in the SEC with a 0.42 goals-against average.

Louisiana enters the match with a 4-1-1 record, fresh off its best opening month in program history. The Ragin’ Cajuns lead the Sun Belt in scoring offense, goals, points, and assists, with 18 goals so far this season. Last time out, they scored four goals within a 10-minute span in a 4-1 victory.

Louisiana’s head coach, Chris McBride, has a career record of 59-72-36 over 10 seasons with the team. The Ragin’ Cajuns have a 3-0-0 series lead over Mississippi State, winning their last three meetings, including a 2-0 victory on Aug. 22, 2021.

Following Thursday’s match, Mississippi State will host Charlotte on Sunday for Senior Day. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. on SEC Network+, with senior ceremonies beginning at 12:45 p.m., according to university officials.

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