North Alabama Soccer Team Prepares for Final Road Game Against Stetson
As the University of North Alabama soccer team gears up for its final road game of the regular season, excitement is palpable among players and fans alike. The Lions will face off against the Stetson Hatters on Sunday, October 20, at 12 p.m. at the Stetson Athletic Training Center in DeLand, Florida. With a perfect record against Stetson, the Lions are looking to maintain their dominance in this matchup, having outscored the Hatters 7-1 in their previous encounters.
Match Details
The upcoming game is set to take place at the Stetson Athletic Training Center, located at 401 E Minnesota Ave, DeLand, FL 32724. Fans who cannot attend the match in person can follow along through live stats available at RoarLions.com via StatBroadcast. Unfortunately, there will be no ESPN+ broadcast for this game, but the excitement of the match can still be felt through the online updates.
Series History: A Strong Track Record
This matchup marks the fifth all-time meeting between the Lions and the Hatters. North Alabama boasts an impressive 4-0 record against Stetson, having allowed only one goal throughout the series. The previous three matchups took place in Florence, where the Lions outperformed the Hatters with a combined score of 6-1. This upcoming game will be only the second time the teams meet in DeLand, with their first encounter occurring back in 2018.
Recap of the Previous Game
In their last outing, the Lions faced a tough challenge against Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), suffering a 3-0 defeat. The Eagles struck early, scoring their first goal in the ninth minute and adding another before halftime. Despite the loss, junior goalkeeper Allanah Blye showcased her skills with four saves in each half, facing a total of 20 shots from FGCU. Senior forward Haley Patterson continued to lead the team in shots, contributing two more to her season total, while sophomore Giada Aldini also made her mark with two shots on goal.
Scouting the Hatters
The Stetson Hatters currently hold a 2-7-0 record in the ASUN conference, placing them ninth in the standings. Their recent performances have been challenging, having lost their last three games against Austin Peay, Lipscomb, and Central Arkansas, with a combined score of 7-1. Senior forward Lea Alexander stands out as a key player for the Hatters, leading the team in multiple offensive categories, including shots, goals, and points.
Spotlight on Haley Patterson
Senior forward Haley Patterson has been a standout player for the Lions this season, particularly as conference play heats up. With 28 total shots and 14 on goal, she leads her teammates significantly in both categories. Notably, 20 of her shots have come during ASUN play, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. Patterson’s contributions have been vital to the team’s offensive strategy, making her a player to watch in the upcoming match against Stetson.
A Promising Future
The Lions’ latest recruiting class has already begun to make an impact on the field. Freshmen such as Anna Fugarino, Gizelle El Assal, and Emerson Nieroda have all seen significant playing time, with each starting in at least 13 games this season. Other newcomers, including forwards Abigail Witten and Ella Remy, as well as defender Langley Wallace, have also contributed to the team’s success. Wallace, in particular, has earned a starting position in the last five games, highlighting the depth and talent of the current roster.
Looking Ahead
Following the match against Stetson, the Lions will return home to Florence, Alabama, for their final regular-season game against Central Arkansas on Saturday, October 26, at 1 p.m. This match will hold special significance as it is Senior Day, where eight seniors will be honored for their contributions to the program.
For more information on North Alabama Athletics, fans can visit RoarLions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The anticipation for the match against Stetson is building, and the Lions are ready to showcase their skills and continue their winning streak in this historic rivalry.