Each year teams have hopes and aspirations of winning a championship, but only a select few every experience that joy.
When it is all said and done this year, the MSU soccer team expects nothing less than a conference championship.
The Bulldogs have demonstrated all-around talent, but the defense propelled them to a 4-0-1 start, including a 1-0 shutout over No. 25 Missouri.
Although the Dawgs have dropped three in a row, MSU’s defense has been dominant and consistent all year long, which is one of the main reasons for the Bulldog’s early success.
“The defense is dominant because we are well organized,” said head coach Neil McGuire. “We’re working very hard to not let in goals, and I think it will be the strength of our program as we move forward.”
The Bulldogs use the flat four defensive scheme which consists of four defenders lined up in a row directly behind the halfbacks. The row is made up of a left back, two center backs and a right back. Both outside backs are encouraged to make runs to help create scoring chances for the offense.
“I think this defense is very effective,” said sophomore Heather Ammann. “You can see it in the statistics and in our record.”
MSU ranks fourth in the SEC in goals allowed, giving up only .75 goals per game. The Dawgs also rank fourth in shutouts with four.
Sunday’s game at Iowa State marked the first game all season in which the defense allowed a goal in the first half.
“I think that we’re more connected and organized on defense this year that we have been before,” said senior Kristen Benefield.
MSU hosts the Jacksonville State Gamecocks (4-2-1) tonight at 7 p.m., and the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders (4-3) Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at the Mississippi State soccer field.
The Gamecocks have a five game unbeaten streak on the line.
“To be successful this weekend we must have a will to win that out matches the other team,” said McGuire. “If we play with pride and passion we will give ourselves an opportunity to be successful.”
In order to be successful, the Bulldogs must regain the offensive firepower that has recently been somewhat invisible. The Bulldogs have failed to score a goal in their last three games.
“Confidence is strong amongst the players,” said McGuire. “We believe in ourselves and our system.”