JACKSON, Miss. | The Jackson State women's soccer team battled to a 2-2 draw against Alcorn State on Thursday afternoon at the JSU Soccer Field. The Tigers scored twice in the opening half, with goals from Ryanne Hawthorn-Harper and Kyla Gomez, to remain unbeaten in conference play.
Alcorn State struck first in the 12th minute when Annick Zouma converted a penalty kick to give the Braves an early 1-0 advantage. Despite the early deficit, Jackson State responded with an aggressive offensive effort, generating several scoring opportunities throughout the first half.
The Tigers broke through in the 37th minute when Hawthorn-Harper found the back of the net off an assist from Heena Rai, leveling the contest at 1-1. The goal marked Hawthorn-Harper's ninth of the season.
Jackson State continued to apply pressure and capitalized just minutes later. In the 42nd minute, Gomez delivered her fourth goal of the season to give the Tigers a 2-1 advantage heading into halftime.
The Tigers carried their momentum into the second half, creating additional scoring chances while working to protect their lead. Hawthorn-Harper continued to lead the offensive attack, recording multiple shots on goal, while Malayah Nuestro and Mia Ortega contributed opportunities for Jackson State.
Defensively, goalkeeper Taylor Osborn helped anchor the Tigers' effort, finishing with four saves across 90 minutes of action.
Alcorn State managed to equalize late in the contest when Zouma scored her second goal of the afternoon in the 85th minute, bringing the match to a 2-2 deadlock.
Neither team found another breakthrough in the closing minutes, resulting in a draw as Jackson State extended its unbeaten start to SWAC play.
Inside the Numbers
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Ryanne Hawthorn-Harper led Jackson State with six shots, including three on goal, and recorded her ninth goal of the season.
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Kyla Gomez netted her fourth goal of the season, giving the Tigers a 2-1 lead in the 42nd minute.
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Heena Rai recorded an assist on Hawthorn-Harper's first-half equalizer.
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Malayah Nuestro contributed three shots for the Tigers.
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Taylor Osborn recorded four saves while playing all 90 minutes in goal.
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Jackson State finished with 12 total shots, including five on goal, while Alcorn State registered 13 shots.
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The Tigers earned two corner kicks, both coming in the second half.
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Jackson State remains unbeaten in SWAC competition with a 4-0-1 conference record.
Up Next
Jackson State will travel to Texas to take on Prairie View A&M on Sunday. Kick off is set for 12 p.m.
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