Mississippi State Opens Soccer Season with 3-0 Win Over South Alabama

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State opened the 2026 soccer season with a 3-0 victory over South Alabama on Wednesday night, marking head coach Kevin O’Brien’s debut. Freshman Kati Anne Shepherd scored in the opening five minutes, setting the tone for the Bulldogs.

Shepherd capitalized on a misplayed pass from South Alabama in the box, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner. O’Brien praised Shepherd’s performance, saying it boosted the team’s confidence. “It gave us confidence, and I think their team, their heads are spinning,” O’Brien said.

State dominated the first half, outshooting the Jaguars 15-2, with an 8-0 edge in shots on goal. The Bulldogs also earned seven corner kicks in the first 45 minutes. The pressure continued in the second half, with 11 shots to South Alabama’s two.

Hailey Johnson scored in the 79th minute after a quick transition, finishing a pass from Reese Black. Reganne Morris added the final goal in the 88th minute, following a pass from Abbey Dalton. State’s defense held South Alabama without a shot on goal, the first time since 2022 the Jaguars have been shut out in that manner.

O’Brien expressed pride in his team’s effort after a month of work with many new players. “It’s hard, and I’m just proud because of all the work they put in,” he said. The Bulldogs are now 1-0-0 and have extended their home winning streak against non-conference opponents to 11 matches. They will face UAB on the road Sunday at 7 p.m. CT, with the game airing on ESPN+.

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