Offensive Struggles Continue for Mizzou Soccer in 1-0 Loss Against LSU

Mizzou soccer entered this match with LSU on a three-game skid and a scoring drought. The Tigers’ offensive woes continued into this contest, and the defense could only hold out so long. The Bayou Bengals claimed a 1-0 victory off a second-half winning shot.

It was like watching a western standoff in this rendition of Tiger vs Tiger. LSU drew first, striking Mizzou in the 74th minute after a beautiful cross inside from defender Natalie Dvorakova that set up forward Morgan Witz for a header into the top left of the net.

Through the first 15 minutes of the match, Mizzou valiantly battled LSU’s offensive pressure. The Tigers had zero shot attempts, while the Bayou Bengals had three shots and two corner kicks — controlling the possession battle.

Mizzou goalkeeper Kate Phillips came into this match third in the conference for total saves and saves per game. Her first save of the night was a precisely timed dive in the 23rd minute.

Halftime couldn’t have come faster for the Tigers’ defense. LSU took eight shots in the opening half — three on target — all saved by Phillips. The Bayou Bengals also had eight opportunities from corners, which Mizzou cleared out of danger each time.

The main component we wanted to see out of the Tigers coming into this weekend was getting more shots up. The first half of play was the exact opposite of this hope. Mizzou did not have a single shot attempt through the first 45’.

It wasn’t until the 59th minute that the Tigers got a shot off, and they actually got two off in the same minute. Midfielder Landis Canada took a tough shot from outside the penalty box that sailed out of bounds, and forward Mia Devrouax’s shot was on target but was saved by LSU goalkeeper Sophine Kevorkian.

Mizzou could not find an equalizing goal in the last 15 minutes and finished the match with six shot attempts, two on goal. LSU, on the other hand, had a total of 17 shots, seven on goal.

Stats and Storylines

LSU has had Mizzou’s number since joining the SEC, the Tigers holding a 2-9-1 record against the Bayou Bengals after the loss tonight.

If there’s one thing Stefanie Golan’s squad has done this season, it’s shut down opposing teams’ top attackers. LSU forward Ava Galligan came in with a team-leading six goals, but she only recorded two shot attempts against Mizzou’s defense.

Phillips’ six saves were the highlight of this match. She stopped multiple shots that could have easily gotten past her, and it wasn’t until the perfect setup in the second half that one got through.

The Tigers return home for their fifth ranked matchup of the season, which will be broadcast on the SEC Network. Kickoff against the No. 25 Alabama Crimson Tide is at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5.