On Sunday evening, the ODU women’s soccer team participated in a doubleheader alongside the men’s team, facing off against LSU. Despite a 90-minute delay, the Lady Monarchs displayed a spirited performance on the field. However, they suffered a 2-1 loss in a strong and physically demanding contest against the Tigers. With the loss, ODU drops to 3-2 overall in their 2024 campaign.
LSU started the game strong and quickly created a scoring opportunity within the first 90 seconds, but unfortunately, the shot was deflected wide of the net. ODU then focused on shoring up their defense and did a great job thwarting LSU’s advances.
In the 10th minute, ODU had a promising moment as they delivered a beautiful crossed ball that led to a shot by senior midfielder Gry Boe Thyrsøe, narrowly missing the target. Despite LSU having a 5-1 shot advantage, the first half ended without any goals being scored. This was in part due to the outstanding performance of substitute goalkeeper Erin Jones, who came in for Emily Bredek in the 20th minute due to her right leg injury.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 50th minute when LSU scored, taking a 1-0 lead. However, ODU refused to back down and managed to equalize in the 65th minute when senior forward Rhea Kijowski scored after a brilliant interception by sophomore midfielder Riley Mullin.
With the score tied at 1-1, both teams intensified their efforts. A contentious foul against ODU’s Ashlynn Kulha resulted in an LSU free kick, which they capitalized on to take a 2-1 lead. ODU pressed hard for an equalizer, earning three consecutive corners in a short period, but unfortunately, they were unable to find the back of the net as the Tigers held on for the victory.
Reflecting on the narrow loss, ODU Head Coach Angie Hind expressed a mix of frustration and pride, noting, “We had three legit chances to tie it back up again. I’m immensely proud of this young group. This one will keep me up at night.”
“It’s one of those games we are going to wish that we could get back.”
Next up, the Lady Monarchs will aim to rebound in a home match this Thursday against in-state rival, George Mason. Kick-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. at ODU Soccer Complex.