KENNESAW, Ga. – The Kennesaw State women's soccer team grabbed a 1-0 lead late in the first half but fell 2-1 to South Alabama on Thursday night at Fifth Third Bank Stadium.

Freshman Mai Jensen kicked off the scoring for the Owls, netting her first career goal at the 41-minute mark to give KSU a 1-0 lead. 

South Alabama quickly responded with an equalizer a minute later from Gracie Wilson. In the second half, Monique Gray's go-ahead goal five minutes in was enough for the Jags to hold on for the 2-1 victory. 

"We grew up a lot from our exhibition game," said head coach Benji Walton. "I thought our back line really came together and defended well in transition. We got a great goal in the first half off transition. When we scored with three minutes left, I said I hope we don't relax. And sure enough, we give it right back. It was a good, tough lesson against an NCAA tournament team and the team that wins the Sun Belt every year. I think our whole team grew up and showed some confidence today. So, that was exciting to see. There were some really good moments and keep putting the next pieces together."

Graduate transfer Kaylee Hammer earned the start at goalkeeper on opening night and secured five saves, one shy of her career best. 

"Hammer did a good job and made some big plays," added Walton. "She covered the goal well and made some good decisions. That's what we needed tonight. Hopefully, that will give her and the back line some confidence and we can keep seeing who keeps battling. The other three goalkeepers are chomping at the bit. Having four good keepers is a nice problem to have for a coach."

Six freshmen for the Owls saw game action for the first time and earned valuable minutes in the opener.

"I thought all our freshman grew up today. I thought in our exhibition against Ole Miss they looked like freshmen for sure. I think tonight they showed some confidence. There's a lot of growth that can happen and I think they learn to play a little faster. It was a great goal in transition. From one freshman to another freshman for a goal is pretty fun to see. We still have some freshmen that didn't get in tonight that are right on the cusp that are going to help on Sunday. It's a pretty deep group and I'm excited about it. They are all learning and locked in, so that's all I can ask."

Next Match

The Owls head to Spartanburg, S.C. to face the Wofford Terriers on Sunday at 2 p.m. 

To keep up with the latest on the Kennesaw State women's soccer team, follow the team on Twitter @KSUOwlNation and @KSUOwlsSoccer or by liking Kennesaw State University on Facebook.