Bluffton, S.C. – The Albany State women’s soccer team dropped a conference matchup to USC Beaufort, falling 3-0 on Saturday afternoon at the USCB Soccer Field. With the loss, the Lady Golden Rams move to 1-4 overall and 0-3 in SIAC play, while the Sand Sharks improve to 5-1-1 (2-0 SIAC).
USC Beaufort wasted little time establishing momentum, scoring all three goals in the opening 23 minutes. Jenny Hesby opened the scoring in the 10th minute off an assist from Izzy Ampheltt. Just two minutes later, Ampheltt added a goal of her own with help from Kate James and Maggie Olsen. The Sand Sharks extended the lead at the 22:48 mark when Kayle Samluk converted a feed from Jasiah Pack and Ampheltt, giving USCB a commanding 3-0 advantage at halftime.
Albany State battled hard to keep the match within reach, generating eight total shots with five on target. Jordyn Keene led the effort offensively with three shots and one on goal, while Aixa Barrera, Gabby Toney, Adjoa Mensah, and Nelia Dailey each added shots on target. In goal, Leire Rodriguez Najera turned in a strong performance with 13 saves, keeping the Sand Sharks scoreless in the second half despite relentless pressure…