Coastal Carolina women’s soccer tied Georgia Southern University 2-2 while honoring their seniors.
Georgia Southern brought the heat within the first 10 minutes as Eagle defender Erin Wilkins quickly scored a goal against CCU.
Coastal Carolina goalkeeper Aris Lamanna kept her sights on Georgia Southern’s offense, saving three shots from reaching the back of the net.
In an offensive effort, midfielder Madison Micheletti worked to get the ball away from Georgia Southern, but lost momentum when her kick was intercepted.
Georgia Southern pushed past Coastal, gaining a second goal within the first 30 minutes.
Chanticleer forward Stella Lawson fired off a shot that slid out of bounds, leaving the Eagles with possession of the ball once again.
The Chants dedicated all their effort in the first half to settle the score 2-0 against the Eagles.
“We’re more complete, we’re better, we’re stronger, and that’s what they give us every day,” CCU women’s soccer head coach Jo Chubb said.
Ending the first half, Coastal Carolina remained behind Georgia Southern, keeping a score of 0-2.
Within the second half, the Chants worked desperately to tighten their defense and find openings for their offense to score. CCU midfielder Tamlyn Parkes tried to capitalize on an opening but was stopped by Georgia Southern’s goalkeeper Quinn Wilson.
The Eagles seemed to deflect every shot Coastal took. But Coastal goalkeeper Lamanna held strong against Georgia Southern’s attempts to increase their score as well, leaving the score 2-0.
The Chants persisted, working tirelessly to score a goal.
“I think, you know, even tonight and throughout the season, they’ve shown an incredible amount of resilience, commitment and buy-in,” Chubb said.
CCU finally scored with six minutes to end the game, bringing the score to 2-1, Georgia Southern.
In response to a foul called on Georgia Southern, CCU forward Julia Ziegenfuss scored with less than 2 minutes left in the half and tied the game. The stands erupted with joyful students and parents’ excitement.
Reflecting on the senior night match, senior defender Cami Wyles said the team looks forward to the future, feeling hopeful.
“I mean, we have a very young team as it is, so these girls are ready to take on that responsibility, and I have nothing but faith for them under Chubb,” Wyles said. “They can do it, they can win.”
Ending the game with a 2-2 tie, the Chants look to capitalize in their next game against Marshall on Friday at 7 p.m. in Huntington, West Virginia.
