GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Bulldogs (6-3-3) are gearing up for an electrifying clash in Gainesville as they prepare to take on the Gators of Florida (5-3-3) in a highly anticipated women’s soccer matchup on Thursday live from The Diz (Donald R. Dizney Stadium). As the Bulldogs pack their bags and head to the Sunshine State, they are fueled with determination to pick up points on the road and seize victory over their SEC rivals.
A key point of interest in this matchup is the fact that both Mississippi State and Florida have crossed paths with common opponents during this season. The Gators managed 0-0 tie against Miami, while the Bulldogs triumphed with a 2-1 victory over the Hurricanes on their home turf. Moreover, Mississippi State went on the road to face LSU, losing a hard-fought battle 2-1, while Florida dominated LSU with a convincing 4-0 victory just last Friday in Baton Rouge. These shared encounters suggest that the Bulldogs and the Gators are evenly matched, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
One of the standout features of the Bulldog’s campaign this year has been their balanced and diverse scoring attack. Eight different players have contributed goals, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility. Leading the charge are junior internationals Aitana Martinez-Montoya and Ilana Izquierdo, both of whom have netted three goals each, along with the equally impressive junior, Hannah Johnson. Johnson, who recently earned an honorable mention selection to the TopDrawerSoccer National Team of the Week, made a significant impact by scoring twice in State’s thrilling 3-3 tie against Tennessee, bringing her total to three goals this season.
In the heart of the action and guarding the Bulldog’s net is Maddy Anderson. Anderson, who has been an indomitable force throughout the season, has played nearly every minute in goal, showcasing her exceptional skills and determination. Anderson boasts a remarkable goals-against-average of 0.847, underscoring her pivotal role in MSU’s quest for success.
It is not just Anderson’s goalkeeping that has been impressive. The Bulldogs have maintained a stout defense, conceding just 0.83 goals per game on average this season. The back line has been a formidable force with center backs Rylie Combs and Alexis Gutierrez thwarting opponents attacking chances in the middle while Molly McDougal and Ruthny Mathurin have been menaces on the outside. Their defense has been instrumental in securing crucial victories and tightly contested matches.
As for the Florida Gators, October began with a pair of their soccer players earning Southeastern Conference weekly honors. Daviana Vaka was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week, showcasing the Gator’s defensive prowess, while Florida’s goal leader, Megan Hinnenkamp, claimed her second Freshman of the Week honor, highlighting the team’s bright future.
Four different Gators have earned SEC Weekly honors, which is the largest array of individual recipients among all league programs this season. Lena Bailey was the first SEC Freshman of the Week recepient this year and Alexa Goldberg was named SEC Defensive Player of the Week for the week of August 28th. This impressive recognition underscores the depth and talent of the Florida squad, making them a formidable opponent in the Southeastern Conference.
As the Bulldogs set their sights on Gainesville and the showdown with the Gators, they carry with them a rich legacy of determination and will look to gain an advantage in the ever changing SEC standings as the season continues to wage on. With their balanced attack and resolute defense, the Maroon and White faithful can watch the Dawgs return to the pitch on SEC Network + at 5:00 PM CT. Soccer fans across the nation will be tuning in eagerly as these two SEC foes collide on the pitch, promising a spectacle of talent, teamwork, and passion. Do not miss the action as State strives to make their mark in the Swamp, while the Gators aim to maintain their impressive form and continue to make waves in the SEC.
