UK’s win streak ends in SEC-opening game against Tennessee

Aniya Hall

On Sunday night, UK women’s soccer traveled to Tennessee to open up SEC play after finishing no-conference play on a three game win streak. However, the Cats would lose to the Volunteers 3-0 at Regal Stadium.

Although Kentucky controlled the game for the first 15 minutes, it wasn’t enough to stop the strong offense of the Vols. With junior Khadija Shaw and sophomore Mary Alice Vignola, Tennessee continued to prove how unstoppable the Vols are on offense.

Kentucky’s Foster Ignoffo came close to a goal in the 14th minute of the game, but UT defender Paige Franks stopped the ball before it went in the net.

In the 17th minute, Vignola came up with a goal with the help of a right cross from Erin Gilroy. The Wildcats continued to push against the Vols’ defense but they struggled to strike back with a goal.

At the 30 minute mark, Tennessee increased their lead with a goal from Shaw, putting them up 2-0, a lead they would take into halftime.

In the second half, the Wildcats continued to press on offense but none of the shots on goal were falling. Tennessee would get another goal in the 88th minute from Shaw, which was her eighth goal of the season. The Vols would go on to win 3-0

The Cats now have a record of 5-5 while Tennessee has a record of 9-0. Tennessee seems to have the confidence to continue their win streak.

Up next for the Cats will be home game against South Carolina on Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in The Bell Soccer Complex.