Mississippi State soccer earns 150th home victory with win over Louisiana

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State’s women’s soccer team claimed its 150th home victory Thursday night, defeating Louisiana 2-1 behind a late goal from Hailey Johnson.

Johnson scored the game-winner in the 64th minute, tapping in a deflected pass. She has now recorded points in all but one game this season and leads the team with four goals. Head coach Kevin O’Brien praised her scoring instincts, calling her a “fox in the box.”

Earlier, Laila Murillo opened the scoring for State in the eighth minute, drawing a penalty and converting it herself. Louisiana’s Miku Kurihara responded with a 17-yard strike to tie the game before halftime. The Bulldogs held a significant shot advantage, 12-2, at the break, with eight shots on goal.

In the 56th minute, Kati Anne Shepherd earned a penalty for State, but her attempt was saved. She continued to pressure, and her cross in the 64th minute set up Johnson’s goal. Shepherd’s assist marked her fourth point in six games this season, and she and Johnson lead the team with 11 and nine points, respectively.

The victory tied Mississippi State’s longest home, non-conference winning streak in program history at 16 matches, dating back to 1998. It also marked the Bulldogs’ 150th home win. State (6-0-0) will aim to finish its non-conference schedule undefeated Sunday against Charlotte, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. on SEC Network+.

The Bulldogs’ non-conference winning streak now stands at nine games, just one shy of the school record. State’s overall unbeaten streak continues as it prepares for its final non-conference game of the season.

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