The Bulldogs opened their season with a tightly contested 1-0 win over Georgia State, a result that kept them unbeaten at 2-0-1 and underscored the team’s resilience under pressure.
A Delayed Kick‑off, But No Loss of Focus
An hour‑long traffic jam on the interstate held up Georgia State’s bus, forcing a late start that could have disrupted momentum. Head coach Todd Yelton, however, praised the Panthers’ quality and said the delay only sharpened his side’s determination.
The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when senior forward Sam De Luca found the net for the first time this season. The goal was set up by sophomore midfielder Langston Lilly, whose precise assist cut through the defense and left the goalkeeper stranded.
Between the scoring chance and the final whistle, Samford’s custodian Peyton Hull cemented the result with her third shutout of the campaign. Hull turned away four shots on target, preserving a clean sheet while the opposition managed only a single goal.
Georgia State’s own net‑minder, Alondra Iriarte, mirrored Hull’s effort with four saves of her own, but a solitary strike from De Luca proved decisive. Aaliyah Faddoul led the Panthers’ attack with three shots, yet could not find the back of the net.
Looking Ahead to Mobile
The Bulldogs will next travel to Mobile, Alabama, where they are scheduled to face South Alabama on Sunday, August 23, at 1 p.m. The upcoming match offers a chance to extend their unbeaten streak and test the team’s depth as the season progresses.