MACON, -- Georgia State got a pair of goals from Simon Carlson in a 2-1 victory over Mercer Wednesday (Oct. 4) on the road at Betts Stadium.
The game kicked off with a flurry of action as Georgia State fired two shots and earned two corner kicks within the first 15 minutes of play. Then, in the 16th minute, Simon Carlson drew a foul just outside the box. Carlson himself took the free kick and unleashed a powerful strike that deflected off a Mercer defender's body and found the back of the net, marking Carlson's fifth goal of the season.
Georgia State wasted little time extending their lead, capitalizing just six minutes later in the 22nd minute. Justin McLean delivered a precise cross into the box, finding Bryan Akongo, who expertly flicked it on to Simon Carlson. Carlson made no mistake, finding the back of the net to make the score 2-0.
In the 33rd minute, Mercer managed to narrow the score to 2-1 with a well-executed free-kick goal. The score remained 2-1 at the half, with Georgia State maintaining the lead in shots, nine to five. Additionally, Georgia State held the advantage in shots on target, leading four to two.
The second half started with the Panthers needing to demonstrate strong defensive play as the Bears swiftly launched four shots, two of which were on target. Keeper Josue Hangi rose to the occasion, making crucial saves to maintain Georgia State's lead.
In the 66th minute, the Panthers had their best chance of the half when Bryan Akongo unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box. The shot was a screaming ball that demanded a brilliant save from the Mercer goalkeeper.
Georgia State's defense held strong throughout the match and appeared to have the game secured. However, in the closing seconds, Mercer launched their most significant attack of the half. They crossed the ball through the box and past the goalkeeper, creating a tense moment. Fortunately for the Panthers, several defenders collapsed to the goal line and successfully cleared the ball, preventing Mercer from equalizing as time expired.
Georgia State concluded the game with a 15-13 advantage in shots, with a six-to-four lead in shots on target. Additionally, the teams were evenly matched in corner kicks, with both sides recording four each.
Georgia St. improved to 4-3-4 overall with the victory.
Georgia State will be back in action on the road against the number 1 ranked Marshall on Saturday, October 7th, with kick-off scheduled for 7:15 PM.
For all things Georgia State soccer, follow the team on social (@gsumenssoccer) as the Panthers continue the 2023 season.
