The Auburn Tigers kicked off their spring season Saturday afternoon against the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Auburn, coming off of a historic tournament run last season, fell by a score of 2-0.
For much of the first half, the two teams took turns controlling possession and creating chances. Auburn saw their first goal-scoring opportunity in the 10th minute, as junior Kristen Dodson rifled a shot that flew just over the bar. Five minutes later, it was State who was pressing, but Auburn goal keeper Sarah Le Beau was able to make an excellent save, one of her five on the day.
Mississippi State finally broke through in the 38th minute. After an Auburn attempt to clear the ball took a deflection, the Tigers were caught out of position and the Bulldogs found themselves in a 2 v 1 situation. State was able to capitalize on that situation as Mallory Eubanks tucked the ball away into the bottom left corner of the net.
The first half ended shortly after and the Tigers headed to the locker room trailing 1-0. Right out of the gates to start the second half, Auburn nearly found an equalizer. Dani Solaru found herself with some space and laced a shot that went just inches over the crossbar. Mississippi State responded with some pressure of their own, almost finding a second goal on their very next attack. After an initial shot, the ball was bouncing around near the goal line before Karli Gutsche was able to clear the lines and relieve the pressure.
Auburn was only able to generate a few more solid chances, with their best coming in the 70th minute. Bri Folds found herself one on one with the State keeper, who made an excellent diving save to preserve the clean sheet.
Mississippi State goalkeeper Rhylee DeCrane picked up a yellow card in the 75th minute for wasting time on a goal kick. On the ensuing attack, the Bulldogs sealed the deal with the second goal of the game. Mississippi State was able to head the ball into the back of the net to make it 2-0 after a perfect cross from the left wing.
Auburn will return to action Thursday as they travel to Samford. The Tigers and Bulldogs will square off at 7:30 pm CST.
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