ATLANTA, -- Georgia State secured a 1-0 shutout victory over Texas State on a goal by Seika Ikezoe Friday at the GSU Soccer Complex, propelling the Panthers to the top of the Sun Belt standings.
The win marked the third consecutive clean sheet for the Panthers and extended GSU's unbeaten streak to five matches.
The first half almost started with a bang when Aaliyah Faddoul stole the opening kick and found Alondra Nieves, who had her shot blocked. The rest of the half was very evenly matched, with both teams registering seven shots. Texas State had three shots on goal, while Georgia State only managed one.
The beginning of the second half was marked by controversy when Jimena Cabrero unleashed a powerful shot from the top of the box that appeared to strike the hand of a Texas State defender. However, the referee did not interpret it as such and opted not to make a penalty call.
As both teams continued to exchange shots, a decisive moment arrived in the 69th minute. Bree Barley sprinted past the defense and delivered a cross into the box. Maddie Johnston executed a clever back heel, directing the ball to Seika Ikezoe, who skillfully redirected it off the post and past the goalkeeper.
The Panthers' backline held strong for the remainder of the half, securing the 1-0 victory. In the second half, GSU dominated with 10 shots compared to Texas State's six. Georgia State had four shots on target during this period, while Texas State managed only two.
The victory boosted Georgia State's record to 7-1-3 overall and 3-0-0 in Sun Belt play. Georgia State's current 3-0 start in conference play marks a significant achievement, the first of its kind since 2003.
The Panthers return to the pitch Thursday Oct. 5 on the road as they take on the Southern Miss Golden Eagles.
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