For the fifth consecutive season, the Samford women’s soccer team has captured the regular season Southern Conference Championship. The Bulldogs were able to accomplish this feat by earning a 1-0 victory over conference rival UNCG on Oct. 21 in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Samford’s lone goal of the match came when sophomore defender Grace Sommi scored off a header in the 84th minute. Sophomore midfielder Alyssa Frazier provided the assist off of a corner kick that lifted the Bulldogs to their 11th victory of the season.
The win marked the 25th straight regular season match without a loss for the Bulldogs, and helped Samford improve their conference record over the last five season to an impressive 39-4-2. The win also gave the Bulldogs the top overall seed in the conference tournament.
The Bulldogs then returned home this past Saturday to take on The Citadel in the quarterfinals of the Southern Conference Tournament. After a hard fought match from both teams, Samford was able to earn the victory by a score of 1-0. Sophomore forward Caroline Orman used her fourth goal of the season in the 49th minute to put the Bulldogs ahead of Citadel 1-0. Orman’s goal was assisted by senior forward Ella Baggett.
The team’s success this season can be attributed to many players stepping up and playing well for the Bulldogs, as well as it’s defense, which has been able to record eight shutouts this season.
When asked to describe the biggest overall strength of the team, Orman talked about how so many different players have played a key factor into the success of the team.
“I think the biggest strength of the team this year is that everyone has been able to play a huge role on the team and contributing to our team’s success this season,” Orman said. “It hasn’t been just one person scoring goals or carrying the team, so it’s really fun to watch everyone doing their part.”
The Bulldogs will next be in action on Friday, Nov. 2 in Macon, Georgia, against the Furman Paladins in the semifinals of the Southern Conference Tournament.
[photo courtesy of Samford Athletics]
