Follow KSU Soccer - X / Instagram
TROY, Ala. – Kennesaw State soccer came back down twice to secure a draw at Troy.
Anabel Orozco contributed on both goals tonight, tallying a goal and an assist. Freshman
Melissa Mert scored her first collegiate goal with the 79
th-minute equalizer.
The Owls were in control of every facet offensively, outshooting the Trojans 21-15 and tripling their amount of corners.
Coach Chris Cahill's Remarks
"Wild game for us tonight." Cahill said. "We showed a lot of heart to bounce back and even the game, twice. I thought we had control of the second half and created more than 20 shots to give us a chance to win the game. The growth in the team is positive, and as we get more clinical in big moments the results can come our way."
First Half
The Trojans struck in the first few minutes of the contest. After goalkeeper
Charlee Bernal made a great save to deny the first chance, Troy received a corner. Brooke Slater sent it far post to Madisyn Marchesi who headed it for the goal.
Orozco gave the Owls the equalizer in the 24
th minute. A VAR review determined that
Courtney Allen was fouled in the box, giving KSU a penalty kick. The senior took the PK and sank it for her second goal of the season.
The Owls nearly went into second half down a goal. In the waning moments of the first half, Troy took a strike from outside the box. Bernal leapt to make the save but the ball fell right in front of a Trojan for the score. After review, it was determined that the goalscorer was offside.
Second Half
After being on the beneficial end of a VAR review for their first goal, the Black and Gold would be on the receiving end of a similar call to start the second half. After
Sian Kellier attempted to make a play on the ball in the box, it was determined that she extended her arm and fouled a Trojan. Bernal guessed the right side on the penalty kick, but it went past her outstretched hand for the goal.
Despite trailing, the Owls were in control for a majority of the second half, dominating the possession and the chances. They were knocking on the door multiple times and eventually found the equalizer in the 79
th minute. After Orozco's shot was blocked, KSU received a corner. The senior took the set piece, whipping the ball to
Melissa Mert who headed it for her first career goal.
Up Next
The Black and Gold will wrap up their road trip on Thursday with a match at Presbyterian. The contest is scheduled for 6 p.m.
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.
