Bulldogs Soar to Historic Heights in Starkville
Starkville, Mississippi—Last night was a momentous occasion for Mississippi State Women’s Soccer as they triumphed over Missouri, claiming a sensational 5-0 victory on their home turf. This win marks a pivotal milestone, setting a new school record with six victories in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play for the season. The Bulldogs are clearly on a roll, and with four regular season games still ahead, the excitement is palpable—every additional victory will only solidify what is shaping up to be an extraordinary season.
A Look Back at the Journey
It’s remarkable to think that it took the Bulldogs five seasons between 1995 and 1999 to win as many as six SEC games combined. During the six seasons leading up to the arrival of Coach James Armstrong in 2013, the team posted a collective SEC record of 8-49-7—a number that starkly contrasts with their current success. With last night’s victory, the team’s overall win total now sits at 12. A single additional win would tie the school’s record for most wins in a season, initially set back in 2001.
Setting the National Standard
This year’s Mississippi State team isn’t just good for the region; they’re making waves across the nation. The Bulldogs boast the best shutout percentage in the country, with eleven shutouts in just thirteen games. They have allowed a mere three goals all season—an impressive feat in the world of D1 soccer. In fact, they are currently the toughest team to score against in the country!
Climbing the Ranks
As of last week, Mississippi State was ranked #4 in the national rankings. A strong 2-0 week has set them up nicely, further enhancing the buzz surrounding the program. The Bulldogs are neck-and-neck with Arkansas, both teams boasting six SEC victories and 18 points in the standings. The two teams faced off earlier this season, with the Bulldogs emerging victorious in Starkville, placing them in a prime position to contend for the SEC championship.
Team Spirit and Fan Support
The camaraderie among the players is something special. Player Hannah Johnson expressed, “Honestly, it’s like no other. We’re all sisters. We’re all family here.” This shared bond is evident in the way they support one another on the field. Every cheer from the sidelines—whether it’s for a 50/50 ball won by Macey Hodge or a slide tackle by Rylie Combs—fills the stands with excitement. It was heartwarming to see 2,073 fans in attendance, marking one of the largest crowds in school history, enjoying this vibrant atmosphere.
Looking Ahead
As the Bulldogs prepare for their next match against Ole Miss on Friday, the anticipation is high. Their focus is clear: to maintain their grip on the Magnolia Cup, as they have won the rivalry matchup for the past four seasons. Coach Armstrong emphasizes the importance of taking things one game at a time, a simple yet effective approach that has served them well this season.
A Bright Future Awaits
With only a few more games left and a rescheduled match against South Carolina on the horizon, the Bulldogs are determined to keep this momentum going. The sky is the limit as they aim for not just an SEC championship but a potential spot in the NCAA tournament. Mississippi State Women’s Soccer is not just making history—they’re setting new standards and igniting dreams that many didn’t think possible in Starkville. It’s an exhilarating time to be a Bulldogs fan!
