The McNeese Cowgirls opened their 2026 campaign with a hard‑fought 2‑1 win over Alcorn State, delivering the program’s first victory under head coach Alexsis Cable.
Key moments
Emma Korhonen broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute, scoring her inaugural NCAA Division I goal, and a minute later she set up Gabbi Barusic, whose own first collegiate strike came in the 33rd minute to push the lead to 2‑0.
Alcorn State answered back in the 70th minute when Grace Ambrose found the net, pulling one back and tightening the contest.
The match also served as a debut platform for four newcomers — Shannon Dempsey, Caitlyn Trosclair, Ashley Guild and Anna Beth Korhonen — who started their first Division I games, while Ella Grace Davis contributed the team’s first collegiate assist.
Looking ahead
With the early win under their belts, the Cowgirls turn their attention to a Sunday showdown against Southern Mississippi, scheduled for 5 p.m. and streamed live on ESPN+, aiming to build on the momentum generated in their opener.