ATLANTA, -- Georgia State fell 4-3 at home to #4 West Virginia Saturday (Sept. 30) at GSU Soccer Complex.
Georgia State wasted no time taking the lead, as Oliver Hlynsson's precise corner kick in the 5th minute found Justin McLean, who expertly headed the ball past the keeper to give the Panthers an early 1-0 advantage.
.The Panthers displayed strong defensive prowess in the early stages of the match, preventing West Virginia from registering a shot on goal until the 35th minute. However, in the 40th minute, West Virginia managed to find the equalizer, making the score 1-1, and in the 43rd minute, they seized the lead, making it 2-1.
The first half concluded with West Virginia leading 2-1 in the scoreline, while Georgia State maintained an edge in shots, with Georgia State totaling five shots compared to West Virginia's three. As for shots on target, West Virginia led 3-2.
The second half began with both teams exchanging shots until Georgia State managed to break through and level the game in the 73rd minute. Jordan Beam unleashed a powerful shot from the top of the box that soared past the goalkeeper, marking his first goal of the season. Bryan Silva provided the assist, resulting in a 2-2 scoreline.
West Virginia continued to exert their offensive prowess, finding the back of the net twice more in the 77th and 83rd minutes. These goals extended their lead to 4-2, putting Georgia State in a difficult position as they sought to mount a comeback.
The Panthers mounted a determined fightback in the 85th minute when Simon Carlson delivered a precise free kick, connecting with Shun Kushima, who skillfully headed the ball past the goalkeeper. This goal narrowed the score to 4-3, igniting hope among Georgia State supporters. The Panthers continued to push forward relentlessly but were unable to find the back of the net again, ultimately succumbing to a 4-3 defeat against the formidable West Virginia squad.
The loss dropped Georgia St.'s record to 3-3-4 overall and 1-1-1 in SBC action.
The Panthers are set to return to action on Wednesday, October 4th, as they hit the road to face Mercer in Macon.
For all things Georgia State soccer, follow the team on social (@gsumenssoccer) as the Panthers continue the 2023 season.
