AUBURN, Ala. — After threatening early, Auburn (4-1-3) soccer conceded its second goal of the season, losing to rival No. 11 Alabama in the Iron Bowl of Soccer, 0-1. The loss marks the first on the season for Auburn, and the first in SEC play.
“We’ve got to play 90 minutes, you know, and I think when you’re looking at the chances we’re creating and we’re missing, we’ve got to continue to work on it on the training ground, but also continue to encourage the players so they want that next chance,” said Auburn head coach James Armstrong.
The Tigers came out swinging in the SEC opener, with Dylan Driver breaking away on an overhead ball into the box. She fired a shot toward the right side corner, but Alabama goalkeeper Madi Munguia was to the task at the near post. She recorded three saves for the Crimson Tide and was key in keeping Auburn off the board.
Alabama scored in the 31st minute when Ashley Roni sent a shot toward Auburn goalkeeper Ayana Yapo, who managed to make the save, but the Auburn defense couldn't clear their lines. The ball fell to Kennedy Garcia, who fired it into the back of the net on the rebound.
The Tigers could not get the ball back for much of the second half, which proved much more physical than the first. Both teams combined for 30 fouls over the course of the match, with Armstrong admitting that the team was undisciplined at times.
Auburn sprang to life and got a couple more chances in the last five minutes, but the Crimson Tide defense held firm and was able to secure the 1-0 win.
“I’m proud of the effort tonight. It’s a step forward,” said Armstrong. “Obviously a disappointing result and we’ve got to pick ourselves up and get ready for
the next game.”
Auburn next plays Sunday, Sept. 18, at home against Ole Miss as it searches for its first win in SEC play. Kickoff will be at 6:30 p.m. and will be streamed live on SEC Network+.
