By: by Mark Toma
KENNESAW, Ga. – The Owls will look for their first win of the season on Friday evening as they battle former Peach Belt conference rivals, Francis Marion, in the home opener at the KSU Soccer Complex.
Kennesaw State (0-1) is looking to rebound after an Opening Night loss at No. 16-ranked Georgia. Francis Marion (0-2), now a Division I program after making a move similar to the transition the Owls made in 2004, are also looking for their first win after suffering losses to Campbell and Navy to start the season.
“Francis Marion is going to be a good match for us,” said Owls head coach Rob King. “It's a match up of two teams, looking for a good result"
In addition to looking for their first win of the season, the Owls will be looking for their first goal of the year as the offense has sputtered during the early goings. Kennesaw State has been shutout in two preseason games and the opener, but look to reverse that trend as they look for their sixth straight win over the Patriots.
“We've not enjoyed much of the ball in our opening matches,” said Owls head coach Rob King. “We need to tighten things up defensively and make better use of the ball when we have it".
The Owls have a potent one-two punch in Atlantic Sun Conference Preseason Player of the Year Maylee Attin-Johnson and Caitlin Dingle, but both are still working hard to get back to full health.
Francis Marion lost their opener on the road against Campbell, 2-1 and then fell to Navy, 6-2, in their home opener. Amanda Hall has been the offensive star for the Patriots, scoring a goal in each game.
The Owls lead the all-time series, 5-0, but the teams have not played since Kennesaw State beat the Patriots, 6-3, during the 2005 season. The Black and Gold have not lost a home opener in their history as they carry a seven-match winning streak into the contest.
Kick-off for the match is set for 7:00 p.m. with Friday night being Welcome Back Students Night. All KSU students showing a valid school ID card will receive complimentary Papa John’s Pizza while supplies last. It is also CHAMPS Pride Night for Student-Athletes featuring a spirit-based competition between the 16 intercollegiate teams at Kennesaw State.
