The Georgia Bulldogs (3-2-2) are gearing up to conclude their non-conference schedule with a home match against the Washington State Cougars (3-2-2) this Sunday, September 15, at Turner Soccer Complex in Athens. The match is set to begin at 1 p.m. EDT and will be streamed live on SEC Network+.
This contest marks the first-ever meeting between Georgia and Washington State. Georgia, ranked 19th in the Top Drawer Soccer rankings, is coming off a 2-0 victory against Samford, giving them a winning record for the first time this season. Graduate forward Tori Penn scored her second goal of the year in the 12th minute, while team scoring leader Margie Detrizio netted her fifth of the season in the 22nd minute. Junior goalkeeper Jordan Brown recorded her 16th career shutout with six saves.
Washington State, a member of the West Coast Conference (WCC) this season, secured a 2-0 win against Georgia Southern last Thursday. Georgia has a 2-4-1 all-time record against WCC teams and a 2-9-2 mark against Pac-12 programs, Washington State’s former conference.
The Bulldogs’ defense has been solid at home, having posted four consecutive shutouts to open their home schedule. This marks their longest home shutout streak since 2013. Brown leads the SEC in saves with 43, averaging 6.14 saves per game.
Several connections exist between the two teams. Georgia head coach Keidane McAlpine and associate head coach Jason Lockhart previously coached Washington State, leading the Cougars to NCAA Tournament appearances in 2012 and 2013. Margie Detrizio, now a key player for Georgia, spent four seasons at Washington State, earning two All-Pac-12 honors. Additionally, Washington State head coach Todd Shulenberger has ties to Georgia, having spent time coaching at Tophat Soccer Club and Georgia State.
Looking ahead, Georgia begins SEC play against No. 25 South Carolina on Thursday, September 19, at 6 p.m. on ESPNU.
Comments