The #2 Vanderbilt Commodores defeated the #3 Georgia Bulldogs 2-0 at Vanderbilt Stadium in front of 1,353 spectators, with Sydney Watts scoring both goals in the victory that extended their winning streak to eight games.
Both teams felt out each other's defensive strengths early, with #3 Georgia's defense holding firm against #2 Vanderbilt's early attacks. Olivia Stafford's through ball in the 15th minute broke through, finding Watts unmarked in the box to score. The #2 Commodores continued to press, earning four corner kicks in the first half, but #3 Georgia's goalkeeper made several crucial saves to keep the score 1-0 at halftime.
Vanderbilt maintained pressure in the second half, with Maci Teater assisting Watts on her second goal of the match in the 67th minute. Georgia's attempts to respond were limited by Vanderbilt's solid defense, with #3 Georgia managing only one shot on goal throughout the entire match. Vanderbilt's Raegan Kelley made several key interceptions, while Georgia's Emily Martin and Samantha Johnson worked to create chances, though ultimately to no avail.
Vanderbilt dominated statistically with 7 shots on goal and 14 total attempts compared to Georgia's 1 and 5 respectively., reflecting their dominance in possession throughout the match. #2 Vanderbilt's win moves them to 15-3-1 on the season, with a 7-2-1 conference record, while #3 Georgia falls to 10-4-6 overall and has lost one consecutive game.
The win keeps #2 Vanderbilt in strong contention for a top conference finish, with their next match coming against unranked Tennessee-Martin. For #3 Georgia, the loss means they must regroup quickly to face #4 South Carolina next week. Vanderbilt's Sydney Watts was the standout performer, scoring both goals and continuing her impressive form. Georgia's Emily Martin created chances, but were ultimately unable to breach the Vanderbilt defense.
Vanderbilt's goalkeeper made one save while Georgia's made five, reflecting the Commodores' defensive control. #2 Vanderbilt's Olivia McCool and Raegan Kelley shut down Georgia's attack, while #3 Georgia's Samantha Johnson and Emily Martin contributed in midfield. Vanderbilt will look to extend its eight-game winning streak, they will be bolstered by their strong defensive performance, while #3 Georgia will need to regroup and address their attacking woes.
With their eight-game winning streak intact, Vanderbilt remains a top conference contender heading into its matchup with Tennessee-Martin, while Georgia seeks to rebound against South Carolina. The Commodores' victory demonstrated their consistency and defensive strength, and they will be looking to build on this as the season enters its final stretch.