Clayton State women's soccer fall 5-1 to NCAA Division I KSU in exhibition play
Kennesaw, GA -- AUGUST 13, 2012 – The Clayton State women's soccer team battled till the end, but it came up short in its attempt to topple NCAA Division I opponent Kennesaw State Monday.
The Lakers fell 5-1 to their north metro-Atlanta rival at KSU Stadium. Clayton State will continue its preseason play on Saturday facing off against a group of former Laker players in the program's annual Alumni match. Kick-off is 5 p.m. at Laker Field.
"KSU was sharper and fitter than us tonight and we expect that so early into our pre-season," said head coach Gareth O'Sullivan. "I have no argument with the result, we were punished for our mistakes by a good team. On the bright side, we had some very solid performances from several of our players."
KSU got off to a fast start in the match, scoring two goals in the first 10 minutes. Iyani Hughes scored an unassisted goal three minutes into the match, followed by Chelsea O'Callaghan ripping a shot from 18 yards for the Lady Owls' second score.
Clayton State immediately answered though to cut the score to 2-1, as Clayton State forward Alicia Robinson scored a goal off an assist from Saidhbh Collins in the 12th minute. O'Callaghan added her second goal in the 26th minute to give the Lady Owls a 3-1 lead at halftime.
In the second half, KSU added goals by Katrina Frost and Danielle Gray to secure the victory. The Lakers had a couple of second half scoring opportunities but were unable to convert against the stingy Kennesaw defense.
The Lakers were outshot 15-3 in the match and Clayton State goalkeeper Laoise O'Driscoll finished with four saves.
