GRAMBLING, Louisiana - Grambling secured a convincing 4-0 victory over South Carolina St. in women's soccer action on Monday afternoon at the Grambling Soccer Complex. The Tigers (3-6-3) thoroughly controlled the match against the struggling Bulldogs (2-10) in front of 327 fans.
While specific goal details were limited in the official data, Grambling's offensive prowess was evident throughout the match as they built their commanding 4-0 advantage. The Tigers' attacking trio of Sophia Lezizidis, Alana Aiken, and Giulia Altomare consistently pressured the Bulldogs' defense from the opening whistle.
The first half saw Grambling establish their dominance early, with Giulia Altomare testing the Bulldogs' goalkeeper in the 2nd minute. Sophia Lezizidis and Alana Aiken both created dangerous opportunities in the 6th minute, while Liana Bryant added another threatening attempt in the 7th minute. South Carolina St.'s lone first-half chance came from Taryn Campbell in the 3rd minute, but the Tigers' defense held firm.
The second half featured increased offensive pressure from Grambling, with Liana Bryant forcing a save immediately after the restart. Nyla Dore-Anderson and Aaniyah Frye both registered shots in the 47th and 48th minutes respectively, maintaining the Tigers' attacking momentum. The match saw increased intensity in the latter stages, evidenced by yellow cards to Dore-Anderson (69th minute) and Liana Bryant (86th minute).
The statistical dominance of Grambling was reflected in the final numbers, as they outshot South Carolina St. 15-1, including 11 shots on target compared to the Bulldogs' single attempt. The Tigers also held a 6-1 advantage in corner kicks, demonstrating their territorial control throughout the match.
Several Grambling players delivered standout performances, particularly Alana Aiken who remained a constant threat in the attacking third. The Tigers' defensive unit, anchored by Cariana Pou and Chloe Bryant, effectively neutralized the Bulldogs' attack. South Carolina St.'s Katelyn Williams showed resilience in defense, though she accumulated multiple fouls as the Bulldogs attempted to contain Grambling's persistent attack.
Tactically, Grambling's approach emphasized width and quick transitions, utilizing the speed of their forwards to stretch South Carolina St.'s defense. The Tigers' coaching staff made strategic substitutions throughout the match, with Taya Sands, Giulia Altomare, and Sophia Lezizidis all rotating to maintain offensive pressure. The Bulldogs struggled to establish their preferred defensive shape against Grambling's fluid attacking movements.
This victory continues Grambling's positive momentum, extending their unbeaten run after their recent 2-2 draw with Alcorn. For South Carolina St., the loss marks their second straight defeat following a 6-0 setback against Jacksonville, highlighting their defensive challenges this season.
The match ultimately showcased Grambling's superior organization and execution, with their comprehensive performance resulting in their most convincing victory of the season. The clean sheet particularly pleased the Tigers' coaching staff, as their defensive unit maintained concentration despite long periods without being tested.
Both teams now look ahead to conference matchups, with Grambling hosting Southern U. on October 10, while South Carolina St. travels to face Charleston Southern on October 8 as they seek to reverse their recent form.