Aug 30, 2013
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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Despite outshooting Samford 13-10, Auburn's soccer team allowed a runaway goal early in the second half that gave the Bulldogs all they would need for a 1-0 win Friday night.
The Tigers fell to 0-2-1 on the season. Samford improved to 2-1 with its second win over an SEC team this season.
"I give Samford a lot of credit," Auburn coach Karen Hoppa said. "They came out and played a great match tonight. We just got beat, and they did it the way we knew they would, on the counter-attack."
Samford's Malcanisha Kelley scored the game's only goal in the 58th minute. Despite some good looks, Auburn was not able to find the equalizer.
"We got a little tight after we gave up that goal, and that is youth," said Hoppa. "We panicked, and the energy went to Samford. We have a lot to learn. We have to finish our opportunities that we get and we have to grow up quick."
Auburn and Samford battled to a scoreless tie in the first half. The Tigers oushot the Bulldogs 9-1 in the half, with the last shot being a Brooke Ramsier attempt that went off the left post. Alyse Scott manned the net in the opening half, coming up with two big stops on Samford corner kick attempts.
Kelley's goal came from 25 yards out. She picked up the ball from Trine Taule at midfield and took off straight for the goal.
Alicen Wright was in goal for Auburn in the second half. She had one save.
Casie Ramsier led Auburn with four of the team's shots. Her sister, Brooke Ramsier, and Tori Ball had two each.
Auburn will return to the field next Friday against Mercer in the first of six straight home matches. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CT, at the Auburn Soccer Complex.