By Official Florida FC
Jacksonville University kicked off its 2023 women’s soccer campaign with a win over Alabama State on Friday night at Southern Oak Stadium.
The Dolphins (1-0-0) only needed nine minutes for Anaya Black to breach the Hornets defense. JU may not have passed the ball in midfield well at the outset, but the Dolphins were able to create and exploit gaps in the Alabama State defense.
Black’s opener came from a gap that was created from quick passing in the midfield and winger Beyonce Robinson’s quick pass to Black’s feet.
What may prove fruitful for the Dolphins going forward was the evening’s three other scorers were all freshmen. Nya Bridgewater scored her first collegiate goal in the 34th minute.
Ines Martin’s first collegiate goal was a looping header in the 57th minute. Martin’s goal was an immediate response to the Dolphins conceding in the 55th minute. Former Weston Cypress Bay midfielder Camila Jimenez assisted Kensley Simmons’ 55th minute header.
Lillian Young’s willingness to take shots when opportunities arose was rewarded with a 59th minute goal. JU head coach John Constable told the players he was not only proud of their attitude in the preseason, but their mentality in victory.
The Dolphins’ will face a sterner challenge in their second match when they travel to No. 12 South Carolina.
