Mississippi State Soccer Achieves Highest National Rank In Program History
September 24, 2024 | Soccer
STARKVILLE – Mississippi State soccer continues to reach new heights under Head Coach James Armstrong and staff. This time, the Bulldogs add a new chapter to the program record book by earning the No. 9 spot in the latest United Soccer Coaches Poll, the highest ranking in program history. This rise comes on the heels of two stellar victories to open SEC play, including a 1-0 win against previously unbeaten No. 11 Texas. The Bulldogs also secured the No. 12 spot in the TopDrawerSoccer Poll and now rank tenth in the NCAA RPI.
Mississippi State (8-1-0, 2-0-0 SEC) kicked off their SEC campaign with a 2-0 victory over Oklahoma and followed that with a statement win, defeating No. 11 Texas (7-1-2, 0-1-1 SEC) at home under the lights. In a closely contested match, Ally Perry's fourth goal of the season, assisted by Aitana Martinez-Montoya, proved to be the game-winner against Texas. Perry's composure and Martinez-Montoya's precision passing were decisive as the Bulldogs outshot Texas 12-7 and showcased their defensive strength.
State's defense, anchored by standout goalkeeper Maddy Anderson, has been among the best in the nation. Anderson's leadership in goal earned her SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors for the fifth time in her career on Monday. The Seabrook, Texas, native has been a key figure in the Bulldogs' defensive unit, collecting seven solo shutouts this season (eight combined), bringing her career total to 32. Anderson's exceptional shot-stopping ability helped Mississippi State blank Oklahoma in their SEC opener and follow it with another clean sheet against Texas. Her efforts have been pivotal in allowing only two goals through nine matches, as the Bulldogs continue to shine defensively.
In recognition of her stellar performances last week, Rylie Combs was named to the TopDrawerSoccer Women's Team of the Week. Combs led the backline in both shutout victories, playing a crucial role in holding Oklahoma and Texas scoreless. Her leadership, consistency, and defensive prowess have been central to the Bulldogs' defensive dominance this season.
The Bulldogs have now recorded eight shutouts in nine matches, the most in program history. Their defense ranks second in the NCAA and SEC in goals-against average (0.22), fourth in save percentage (.917), and second in the nation in shutout percentage (.889).
No. 9 Mississippi State will look to continue their strong form as they face No. 23 South Carolina on the road this Thursday, followed by a home match against LSU on Sunday.
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."
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