SAN MARCOS, TEXAS — James Madison's offense overwhelmed Texas St. on Thursday night, scoring four goals to secure a 4-2 victory in a Sun Belt Conference matchup that saw the home side play the final 79 minutes with 10 players. The Dukes' clinical finishing and Texas St.'s early red card proved decisive in front of a crowd at Bobcat Soccer Complex.
The match turned dramatically in the 12th minute when Brooklyn Escobar was sent off for a handball that denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity. With Texas St. forced to shuffle its lineup and move goalkeeper Maude Rouanet into an outfield position, James Madison seized control. Mady Soumare briefly gave the hosts hope with a goal in the 17th minute, assisted by Chloe Jones and Alexis Montgomery, but the Dukes answered back decisively.
Lena Dahms equalized in the 29th minute with help from Jamie Swartz and Abby Fisher, then Avery White put James Madison ahead just before the half-hour mark. The visitors weren't finished—Aleigha Arndt struck in the 46th minute, assisted by Selma Rajakangas and Ginny Lackey, extending the lead to 3-1. Audrey Orrock added a fourth goal in the 56th minute off an Arndt assist, effectively putting the match out of reach despite Matsuri Tsutsui's late consolation goal for Texas St.
James Madison dominated possession throughout, outshooting the Bobcats 21-7 overall and 9-5 on target. The Dukes' ability to convert chances proved the difference—they found the back of the net four times while Texas St. managed just two goals despite playing with numerical disadvantage for most of the contest. Corner kicks also favored the visitors, who earned five to Texas St.'s zero.
The second half saw James Madison control the tempo with fresh legs, cycling through substitutions while maintaining pressure. Texas St. fought to stay competitive but lacked the personnel and rhythm to mount a serious comeback. The home side's discipline also deteriorated late, with Mady Soumare receiving a red card for abusive conduct in the final minute, and Angela Gatto earning a yellow for dissent.
Audrey Orrock was a standout for James Madison, creating dangerous chances throughout and finishing one herself. Ginny Lackey's creativity in the midfield helped unlock Texas St.'s depleted defense, while Selma Rajakangas provided crucial support on the wing. For the hosts, Helen Alormenu worked tirelessly despite the personnel shortage, though her efforts couldn't overcome the early disadvantage.
The loss drops Texas St. to 8-3-6 on the season following back-to-back results against ranked opponents. James Madison improved to 9-4-5 and now sits atop the Sun Belt standings heading into the conference tournament. Both teams will meet again on November 3rd in the Sun Belt Championship match in Foley, Alabama, where the stakes will be even higher.
The Dukes' road victory showcased their ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain composure when facing adversity. For Texas St., the early red card proved insurmountable, but the Bobcats' resilience in scoring twice while undermanned suggests they'll be a formidable opponent in the championship rematch.