RUSTON, La. | Jackson State women's soccer delivered a resilient second-half performance Thursday evening, scoring twice after the break to secure a 2-1 comeback victory over Grambling State at the Ruston Sports Complex.
After falling behind in the first half, JSU responded with a pair of goals in the second period, showcasing their determination and composure to earn the road win and improve to 2-0 in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play.
Grambling State struck first in the 15th minute when Kennedy Farr found the back of the net to give the home team a 1-0 advantage. Jackson State continued to battle throughout the opening period, looking for an equalizer before halftime.
The JSU Tigers found their breakthrough just minutes into the second half. In the 49th minute, Kyla Gomez scored her second goal of the season to bring Jackson State level at 1-1. Sarah Portis provided the assist, setting up the equalizing finish that shifted momentum in JSU's favor.
With the match deadlocked late in the contest, Jackson State delivered the decisive blow in the 82nd minute. Ryanne Hawthorn-Harper scored her team-leading seventh goal of the season to put Jackson State ahead 2-1 and complete the comeback. Hawthorn-Harper's goal proved to be the game-winner, sealing an important conference victory on the road.
In goal, Taylor Osborn played a key role in preserving the result, recording four saves on five shots on target. Her efforts helped Jackson State withstand Grambling State's attacking pressure, particularly during a first half in which the home team recorded 12 shots.
Grambling State finished with a 15-6 advantage in total shots, but Jackson State made its opportunities count, converting twice on three shots on goal. Jackson State's second-half execution ultimately proved decisive as they turned a halftime deficit into a triumph.
With the victory, Jackson State continues its SWAC campaign on a positive note, earning a hard-fought road win through timely scoring and a determined team effort.
Up Next
The Tigers will continue on the road to Arkansas Pine Bluff on Sunday. Kick off is set for 12 p.m.
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