After two consecutive draws at home, the ULM women’s soccer team (8-4-2; 2-1-2 SBC) won 2-0 against Arkansas State (3-4-3; 0-3-1 SBC) at Brown Stadium on Oct. 10.
The Warhawks set the tone early in the first half of the game, netting the first goal within five minutes. A cross from ULM midfielder Mara Grutkamp gave forward Jensyn Lins an opening. Lins made the most of the opportunity, slotting the ball home with a single touch.
Grutkamp’s pass to Lins marked her 22nd career assist, putting her just three away from the program’s record.
As ULM advanced, a foul by the Red Wolves defender resulted in a penalty for the Warhawks. ULM full-back Ally Richardson stepped up and shot bottom-left to score her third goal this season.
The first half ended 2-0 in favor of ULM. The Warhawks substituted in defenders Sophia Youngman and Jaden Masters to preserve the lead.
The second half was intense, with five fouls called in the first 10 minutes alone.
As the half progressed, the Warhawks’ forward Skylar Blaise broke through the Red Wolves’ defense, but Arkansas State goalie Damaris Deschaine blocked her shot.
In the last 15 minutes, the Red Wolves had an opportunity to get back in the game. Richardson’s tackle halted Arkansas State’s attack but resulted in her sustaining an injury.
“The game was physical. A lot of people went down, but that’s every game,” Richardson said. “Every game on Sun Belt is physical. So, it is expected always.”
The second half concluded without any goals. ULM defender Leane Commaret shared her excitement, reflecting on the team’s effort.
“I am really happy about the win,” Commaret said. “We worked super hard for the game, and this win was a needed win. I am really proud of the team.”
The Warhawks’ defenders were instrumental in keeping the opposition from scoring, consistently neutralizing the Red Wolves’ offense. ULM goalie Jennifer Handy had two saves this game, recording her third shutout of the season.
“The defense was really, really good,” Grutkamp said. “They played as one unit at the back and did a great job. We will keep working to make the defense better.”
This win marked the Warhawks’ seventh clean sheet of the season, matching the program’s record for most shutouts in a single year.
ULM will travel to Georgia State to face the Panthers on Oct. 18 before playing Coastal Carolina at home on Oct. 23.
