After an undefeated home game streak, the ULM women’s soccer team suffered its first loss at Brown Stadium 2-0 against Coastal Carolina on Oct.23.
ULM’s defeat against the Chanticleers marks their third straight loss in the Sun Belt Conference, extending the team’s overall record to 8-7-2 and 3-4-1 in the SBC.
Both teams started the first half of the game aggressively. Coastal Carolina broke through ULM’s defense in the first minute, but the play was called offside. Just minutes later, ULM midfielder Mara Grutkamp fired a shot outside the box, forcing a save and earning ULM their first corner of the game.
The Chanticleers intercepted a misplaced back pass from ULM’s defense, seizing the opportunity to score their first goal. After gaining the lead, Coastal Carolina maintained possession throughout the first half, making it harder for ULM to gain control of the ball.
ULM turned up the heat in the second half of the game. Despite making several openings, the Warhawks were unable to find the back of the net. ULM registered eight shots, five of which were on target.
“I think we just did not capitalize on our chances,” ULM forward Kai Douglas said. “The other team capitalized more on our errors, and we just have to eliminate those errors going forward.”
Aiming to score again, the Chanticleers passed the ball strategically to create an opening in ULM’s defense. Coastal Carolina forward Julia Ziegenfuss converted the opportunity into another goal, ending the game 2-0.
The game was physical, with numerous fouls called. The Warhawks committed 16 fouls to the Chanticleers’ 11.
With three games left to play in the Sun Belt Conference, ULM’s chances of qualifying for the Sun Belt Tournaments are narrowing. In preparation for their upcoming games, ULM midfielder Vanessa Praher shares her determined approach.
“We need to focus on the game step by step. We need to win and only win; we don’t want ties or losses,” Praher said. “We will give our best and hopefully head into the conference tournament.”
Come support the ULM women’s soccer team at Brown Stadium as they face Ole Miss on Oct. 31.
