Stable Talk Post-Game Recap
October 5, 2024 – The Swamp, Shreveport, LA
On October 5, the Lady Stallions of North American University took on a daunting challenge, traveling to face LSU Shreveport (9-3-0), a powerhouse with over 30 active players. Despite having no substitutes, the Stallions fought with heart and determination against an unrelenting Pilots squad. Though the final scoreline of 11-0 favored LSU Shreveport, the Lady Stallions once again showed what it means to compete with resilience and pride.
From the opening whistle, the Pilots came out firing on all cylinders, led by standout performances from Dawniella Torres and Diana Leon, who combined for five goals and multiple assists. Torres notched two goals and contributed three assists, while Leon delivered a hat-trick, terrorizing the NAU defense throughout the match.
Despite facing 24 shots on goal, NAU's goalkeeper, Ava Wilson, made 13 impressive saves in a game where she was constantly under fire. LSU Shreveport's offensive firepower also came from Mada Uriarte and Juliana Anchondo, who added two goals each, with Jillian Rogers sealing the game's final tally in the last minute.
Fighting Spirit on Display
While LSU Shreveport dominated possession and chances, outshooting NAU 33-2, the Lady Stallions never quit. Genevieve Colon and Maria Alejandra Acosta each registered a shot on goal, offering glimpses of their attacking potential. Defensively, Andrea Davila, Lyric Andrews, and Jocelyne Mendoza faced wave after wave of pressure, doing everything they could to disrupt the Pilots' rhythm.
LSUS had several standout performances:
- Emily Smith—a hat-trick and two assists made her a constant threat.
- Jessica Brown—bossed the midfield with two goals and expertly controlled the pace of play.
- Sarah Johnson—a commanding presence on defense, she even scored from a set-piece to round out her versatile display.
- Rachel Lee—stood tall in goal, making critical saves to keep the clean sheet intact for the Pilots.
Coach's Corner:
Despite the tough loss, Coach Dane Smith remained proud of his team's heart: "It's never easy when you're up against a deep roster like LSUS with no subs, but our ladies fought for every ball, every minute. That's the kind of fight you can't teach—it comes from within. We'll learn from this and bounce back stronger."
Looking Ahead: Two Legendary Matchups Await
The Lady Stallions now turn their attention to two of the most legendary HBCU institutions in the State of Texas. First up on Thursday, October 10, they travel to SaberCat Stadium to take on Jarvis Christian University. Jarvis has had its struggles lately, but they'll be eager to turn things around. The Stallions are favored in this matchup and will look to take advantage of a win to get back on track.
Then, on Saturday, October 12, Texas College, an original member of the SWAC and the first Champions of that division, comes to town. The location is still to be determined, but the history runs deep. Texas College has faced challenges post-COVID but under the leadership of Coach Marcos Mthembu—who not only served as NAU's coach but also as Rev. Justin C. Jackson's mentor—they have been steadily rebuilding. Coach Mthembu, a valiant figure, has worked tirelessly to get the Steers organized and back on form.
"Coach Mthembu taught me what it means to lead, and I see that same leadership as he works hard to revive Texas College's program," says Rev. Jackson. "I have no doubt they will come prepared and hungry."
Texas College has undergone a rebuilding phase, but now they are eager to prove that the Steers are ready to stampede back into form. For the Lady Stallions, these next two games are critical in their push for USCAA postseason play.
Hooves Up for the Win!
The ladies are favored against the Javis Bulldogs and can use that win to rope and hogtie the steers into submission and add these wins to our commission for our USCAA postseason mission. So, get those four fingers ready, Stallion Nation! It's time to rally behind our Lady Stallions as they chase down the wins we need. Let's give these Bulldogs and Steers something to remember!
HOOOOVES UPPPP and Goooooo Stallionsssssssssss!!!
Rev. Justin C. Jackson, Sports Information Director
