No. 3 State Set To Host Kentucky In Final SEC Home Matchup

STARKVILLE – The No. 3 Bulldogs are gearing up for their final SEC home match of the 2024 season as they welcome Kentucky to MSU Soccer Field on Thursday. With an impressive 13-1-0 overall record and an undefeated 7-0-0 mark in SEC play, the Bulldogs are poised to continue their historic run in front of the Maroon and White faithful against a Kentucky side that enters the matchup with a solid 10-2-4 overall record and 2-2-4 in SEC play.

State enters the match riding a 10-game winning streak, the longest in program history. The Bulldogs have established themselves as a dominant force both offensively and defensively this season, and they are eager to close out their SEC home slate with a victory that would keep them on course for a perfect conference season. Kentucky, on the other hand, comes into Starkville after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against No. 11 Auburn.

Mississippi State's success this season has been built on an elite defensive foundation, with goalkeeper Maddy Anderson playing a crucial role in the team's remarkable run. Anderson, a graduate student from Seabrook, Texas, has been a rock between the posts, recording 11 solo shutouts (12 combined) to bring her career total to 36—ranking third in the NCAA this season for shutouts. Her outstanding performances have helped Mississippi State maintain the nation's best goals-against average (0.219) and secure their perfect 7-0 start in SEC play.

Anderson leads both the NCAA and the SEC in goals-against average and save percentage (.912), making her one of the most formidable goalkeepers in the country. With her leadership and shot-stopping ability, the Bulldogs have kept 12 clean sheets this season, including crucial shutouts against top-ranked opponents. Anderson's contributions have been instrumental in establishing Mississippi State as one of the top defensive teams in the nation.

Beyond her excellence in goal, Maddy Anderson has made significant contributions to the Starkville community through her dedication to service. Anderson's leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping others have earned her a place on the SEC Community Service Team, recognizing her efforts to give back to those around her. Whether on the soccer field or in the community, Anderson exemplifies the values of leadership and service, making a lasting impact both within and beyond the Mississippi State program.

While State's defense has been outstanding, their offense has been equally impressive, showcasing depth and versatility across the roster. Junior midfielder Ally Perry has been the Bulldogs' offensive leader, netting a team-high eight goals, including four game-winners. Perry's ability to create scoring opportunities has made her one of the most dangerous attackers in the SEC, as she leads the conference in shots per game (4.43) and ranks 13th nationally with 62 total shots. Her knack for stepping up in crucial moments has been vital to Mississippi State's offensive success.

In total, 13 different Bulldogs have found the back of the net this season, highlighting the team's ability to score from multiple positions on the pitch. This offensive balance has made Mississippi State difficult to defend, as opponents cannot focus on shutting down just one player. The Bulldogs' versatility and depth have been key factors in their ability to consistently outscore their opponents.

State's impressive depth and talent have been highlighted by five Bulldogs being named to TopDrawerSoccer's Top 100 Players list. Graduate midfielder Macey Hodge, ranked No. 8, has been a consistent leader for the team, logging over 7,600 minutes in her career while providing leadership on and off the field. Junior Ally Perry, ranked No. 13, stands out as one of the top attackers in the SEC with her offensive prowess and shot-creating ability. Senior defender Alexis Gutierrez, ranked No. 18, has anchored a defense that leads the nation in goals-against average. Colombian international Ilana Izquierdo, ranked No. 46, has been a key part of the Bulldogs' midfield, bringing valuable experience from the international stage. Rylie Combs, ranked No. 54, has been a defensive powerhouse, playing a crucial role in helping the team secure 12 shutouts this season.

The MSU Soccer Field has become a fortress for the Bulldogs, with the team extending their home unbeaten streak to an impressive 13 matches, including 11 consecutive victories. The electric atmosphere in Starkville has been bolstered by back-to-back-to-back top-10 crowds, giving Mississippi State a formidable home-field advantage. Earlier this season, the Bulldogs shattered their attendance record with 2,617 fans packing the stands for their thrilling win over then-No. 1 Arkansas. In their most recent home outing against Missouri, 2,073 fans showed up, marking the second-largest crowd in program history. As the Bulldogs prepare to host Kentucky, another large and passionate crowd is expected to cheer on one of the most successful teams in Mississippi State history.

Thursday's matchup against Kentucky will also feature Soctober Fest at MSU Soccer Field, offering a fun and family-friendly atmosphere for all fans. Beginning at 5:45 p.m., Mississippi State's baseball, football, softball, volleyball, men's and women's track and field, and women's basketball teams will be on hand to distribute candy to kids 12 and under. Fans in attendance can also collect a limited-edition aluminum Mississippi State cup, available while supplies last. Adding to the excitement, the Famous Maroon Band will make a special appearance, bringing their signature energy to the festivities. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT, and fans can tune in to watch the action live on SECN+.

Key Storylines to Watch

Hot Starts: Under head coach James Armstrong, Mississippi State is nearly unbeatable when scoring first, boasting a 52-1-6 record. The Bulldogs are also undefeated (34-0-3) when leading at halftime, highlighting the importance of a strong start.
Program Records: The Bulldogs have already set new records for most consecutive wins (10) and SEC victories (7) in a single season. Another victory would further cement their place in program history.
Home Dominance: Mississippi State's home unbeaten streak of 13 matches has made MSU Soccer Field one of the toughest places to play in the SEC. The Bulldogs will look to keep that streak alive as they close out their SEC home schedule.

For the most up-to-date information on the Bulldogs, follow MSU women's soccer on X, like them on Facebook, and join them on Instagram by searching for "HailStateSoc."

– HailState.com –