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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – After each team scored in the first 15 minutes of action, it was a goal late in the first half that ultimately decided this contest, with Missouri State edging out Kennesaw State, 2-1.
Ava Bradford scored for the Black and Gold, bringing her total number of goals up to four on the year. She also crossed the double-digit points threshold with 11, becoming the second Owl to do so this season.
Coach Chris Cahill's Remarks
"We played with great effort today and I thought we controlled the first half," Cahill commented. "We had two mistakes and recovered one of them. Unfortunately, we felt shy of getting the second one back. I really like this team and how much we continue to grow. We've got two final opportunities to continue to chase our goals; I look forward to it with this team."
First Half
Missouri State jumped out to an early lead, scoring in the fourth minute. The Bears' initial sequence in the box was stopped, but
Charlee Bernal couldn't corral the ball. Ellie Neath ran in and got the tap-in goal.
Ava Bradford responded 10 minutes later for the Owls. She took advantage of the open space, dribbling the ball into the 18-yard box and ripping a shot off her left foot for the goal.
Anabel Orozco had a chance to help the Owls take the lead, but her attempt bounced off the crossbar.
Neath picked up a first-half brace. The Black and Gold failed to clear the ball deep in their defensive end and the sophomore found herself 1-on-1 with the goalkeeper and scored.
Second Half
After combining for three goals in the first half, neither team registered a shot on target in the final 45 minutes.
The Owls' best chance at an equalizer came halfway into the period.
Aaliyah McDiarmid set up
Ashley Tan right in front of the goal. The goalkeeper Kate Lewis and another MoState defender prevented Tan from getting a clean shot off.
Up Next
The Black and Gold return home on Sunday for their final regular season home match against Middle Tennessee. The contest is scheduled for 3 p.m. and will be streamed live on ESPN+. Sunday's affair also serves as the program's Senior Day.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
