Sam Houston Secures First Conference Win Against New Mexico State

Bearkats Secure First Conference Win Against New Mexico State at Pritchett Field

The Sam Houston soccer team earned its first conference victory of the season Sunday, defeating New Mexico State 2-1 at Pritchett Field, [gobearkats.com] reported. The win lifts the Bearkats to a 5-4-4 overall record and a 1-2-1 mark in Conference USA play.

Ellie Morgan and Lila Millward Score in Second-Half Surge

The match remained scoreless until the 64th minute when Ellie Morgan broke the deadlock. Morgan netted her third goal of the season off an assist from Kaleigh Lazenby to put the Bearkats ahead. Sam Houston doubled its advantage just seven minutes later. In the 71st minute, Lila Millward found the back of the net for her first goal of the season, with Siera Herbert providing the assist.

New Mexico State responded quickly, cutting the deficit to 2-1 less than a minute after Millward’s goal. However, the Bearkats’ defense held firm for the remainder of the match to secure the conference points. Goalkeeper Hannah Stipp played all 90 minutes and recorded seven saves to preserve the victory.

Shot Counts and National Team Absence Shape Match Dynamics

Both teams generated numerous scoring opportunities throughout the 90 minutes. Sam Houston finished the match with 18 total shots, putting eight on target. New Mexico State applied steady offensive pressure of its own, recording 20 shots with eight on goal.

The Bearkats achieved the victory while playing without midfielder Jasmine Dybala. Dybala missed the match after receiving a call-up to represent the El Salvador women’s national team in an international friendly against Paraguay.

Upcoming Match Against Jacksonville State at Jax State Soccer Complex

Sam Houston hits the road for its next conference fixture on Saturday, Oct. 17. The Bearkats travel to Jacksonville, Alabama, to face Jacksonville State at the Jax State Soccer Complex, with kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Match

What was Sam Houston’s record after defeating New Mexico State?

The victory brought the Bearkats’ record to 5-4-4 overall and 1-2-1 in Conference USA play.

Who provided the assists for the Bearkats’ two goals?

Kaleigh Lazenby assisted on Ellie Morgan’s opening goal in the 64th minute, and Siera Herbert provided the assist on Lila Millward’s 71st-minute goal.

When and where is Sam Houston’s next game?

The Bearkats play Jacksonville State on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 6 p.m. at the Jax State Soccer Complex in Jacksonville, Alabama.