Louisiana Tech's Bulldogs kicked off the 2024 women's soccer season on August 15, playing host to Nicholls College at Robert Mack Caruthers Field in a tightly contested 2-2 draw.
Opening Surge
Sophomore forward Reagan Roberts opened the scoring in the 13th minute, slipping a well‑placed shot past the Nicholls keeper to put the Bulldogs ahead. The goal was Roberts's second career tally, and it came after a crisp assist from freshman Isabella Wilson, who marked her collegiate debut with a helper.
Wilson's involvement set a tone of attacking intent, and the Bulldogs continued to press, generating a flurry of chances that kept the Nicholls defense on the back foot.
A Response and a Setback
Nicholls answered back in the 36th minute when Alyssa Wheeler converted a penalty, leveling the match at 1-1 heading into the break. The Bulldogs, however, regained the lead just after the hour mark as an own goal shifted momentum, leaving them ahead 2-1 with under twenty minutes remaining.
Goalkeeper Cadence Rutledge made three crucial saves to preserve the lead, while Nicholls' net‑minder Aislinn Wright faced a barrage of shots, finishing with ten stops.
Late Equalizer and Reflection
In the 84th minute, Jezlyn Nelson struck for Nicholls, curling a shot that tied the game at 2-2 and sealed a draw that left both sides with a share of the spoils.
Despite the deadlock, the Bulldogs outshot their opponents 21‑12 overall, dominating the first half 12‑5 and maintaining a 9‑7 edge after the interval. The team also enjoyed a 12‑0 corner‑kick advantage, underscoring their sustained pressure.
Coach Matt Lodge, while acknowledging the need for improvement, praised the squad's resilience and collective effort. He emphasized that the early challenges have forged a foundation on which the team can build its identity, noting that the players must continue to refine their cohesion in the locker room and on the field.
The draw marks the second meeting in the series that has ended level, extending Louisiana Tech's historical edge to an 8‑0‑2 record. With a 12‑8‑3 record in season‑opening matches and a 6‑1‑1 home‑field advantage, the Bulldogs look to carry this momentum into their next contest against the Southeastern Lions.
Notably, Isabella Wilson became the first freshman since Emma Jones in 2021 to register an assist in her debut, a milestone that highlights the fresh talent entering the program.