Late Penalty Kick Haunts Soccer Once Again

For the second consecutive game, Texas Southern fell victim to a penalty kick as a late penalty kick from Alabama State was the determining factor in a hard-hitting 1-0 loss on Sunday at Durley Stadium.

Both teams came out strong at the starting buzzer with the Hornets strong on the offensive end while the Lady Tigers were heavy on defense. Goalkeeper, Jaidyn Christophe righteously defended her post with four saves in the first half while sophomore, Alexis Luna had a single shot attempt.

“For the second game of the weekend, we showed well. Alabama State has talent and they outworked us in some moments,” said head coach Lindsay Vera.

Senior, Lemauriel Johnson came out in the second half blazing with a pair of shot attempts in the 45th and 48th minute, respectively. TSU’s offense picked up with eight total shot attempts including two that were on goal by Mia Ontiveros, Sammie Garcia, and Crisley Pavon. Jaidyn Christophe continued her goal defense with two saves.

In the 82nd minute and intensity high on both ends, ASU converted a corner kick as both TSU and Alabama State had players tangled up in front of the TSU goal as both were fighting for control of the ball. However, TSU was whistled for a foul and Alabama State converted the kick for the 1-0 decision. Despite the late goal, TSU upped the pressure offensively and had a shot at tying the game as Crisely Pavon’s kick was perfectly executed but the front line was seconds short from connecting with the ball for an attempt at the goal.

“When they put away the penalty kick there was still time left for us to level up. But we were a step behind in front of the goal when Crisely sent our free-kick across the six-yard line. These are details that we must improve upon before next Friday,” said Vera.

The Lady Tigers conclude their season with the final SWAC conference game against Prairie View A&M on Friday.

“It has been a crazy season, but we are still working to make an impression and surprise some people,” Vera concluded.

Kickoff is at 7 p.m. inside Durley Stadium and will offer free admission as groups are encouraged to sit together due to COVID-19 protocols. As of now, the contest will be streamed live via YouTube.