Texas Soccer Earns Draw in SEC Debut

Texas women’s soccer opened its SEC debut very strong, jumping to a 2-0 lead. But the intensity of SEC play wore on the Longhorns as the Alabama Tide rallied and left town with a 2-2 draw. 

“It’s really disappointing, obviously after being up two (goals), but it’s not as bad as it could be. We took a point. This league is so talented that people are going to steal points from everyone. So, we are going to regroup and be ready to go Sunday,” said Texas head coach Angela Kelly. 

The Longhorns jumped on top just two minutes and 12 seconds into the match.  Ashlyn Miller and Lexi Miller found Amalia Villarreal undefended and easily beat Alabama keeper Coralie Lallier for Texas’ first goal in SEC history. 

Ten minutes later Texas’ Jilly Shimkin launched a shot to the upper corner of the net, giving the Longhorns a 2-nil advantage. 

Alabama maintained their composure and displayed their discipline when Nadia Ramadan perfectly placed a free kick to beat Texas goalkeeper Mia Justus. 

Isabel Smith secured the tying goal for the Tide with under eight minutes remaining in the match. 

Tide goalkeeper Lallier faced down 11 shots on target by Texas in the second half. 

Tensions were running high as three Texas players were shown yellow cards.