TUSCALOOSA, Ala.- The Alabama soccer team used a late first-half goal from freshman Katie Bourgeois to spark a 2-1 victory over in-state rival Samford, Friday night in front 1,266 fans at the Alabama Soccer Complex. It was the second largest crowd in stadium history.
The Crimson Tide opened its home season with a 2-1 victory over instate-foe Samford Friday evening.
“It was the best crowd we’ve ever had in my five years here,” UA head coach Todd Bramble said. “It was the best student section, best group of fans, that we’ve had, and I think we really responded to that tonight.”
With the win, Alabama improves to 2-0 on the year, while Samford falls to 0-2.
After dominating for most of the first half, Alabama broke through with under a minute remaining. After holding possession at the top of the box, senior Meghan Duffy slid a through ball down the line to junior Kendall Khanna, who played a ball across the goal for a Katie Bourgeois tap in with 25 seconds remaining. It was the freshman’s second goal in as many games.
Alabama added to its lead 12 minutes into the second half when a long throw in by Duffy led sophomore Theresa Diederich on a run into the box. After juking two defenders, Diederich buried the shot in the back post to give the Tide a 2-0 lead.
Samford pulled to within a goal with less than 30 minutes remaining when McKenzie Thomas slipped one in through a scrum in front of the goal. Overall, Alabama outshot the Bulldogs 26-7 on the night, and enjoyed an 8-1 advantage in corner kicks. Junior Molly Atherton had six shots on the night for the Tide, while junior goalkeeper Shelby Church made three saves.
Alabama hits the road Sunday, as they travel to Birmingham to face UAB. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m., at the UAB West Campus Stadium. Josh Zavadil will have the call on 90.7FM and online at wvuafm.ua.edu.
Release and Photos Courtesy UA Athletics
