Starkville MS, September 24, 2025
News Summary
The Mississippi State soccer team showcased resilience against Auburn, finishing their match in a 1-1 draw. After falling behind to a goal from Auburn’s Olivia Woodson, the Bulldogs rallied, with Ally Perry scoring the equalizer. Despite late attempts to secure a win, including a saved opportunity by Laila Murillo, Mississippi State held strong, emphasizing team unity and tactical adjustments. Their current record stands at 7-1-1 overall and 2-0-1 in conference play, which has affected their ranking, now at No. 15 in the national standings.
Starkville, Mississippi – The Mississippi State soccer team played to a dramatic 1-1 draw against Auburn in their latest matchup, showcasing resilience after going down a goal late in the second half. Auburn’s Olivia Woodson scored the opening goal with a taunt that quieted the crowd just before the 60-minute mark, putting the Bulldogs under pressure.
Despite the setback, Ally Perry emphasized the importance of team unity and effort during a huddle shortly after the goal. The Bulldogs regrouped and exhibited a significant improvement in their performance over the final 32 minutes, demonstrating enhanced passing and creativity in the midfield.
Perry found the back of the net to level the score with a well-placed right-footed shot from the edge of the box. She noted that the team needed just one or two moments of clarity to succeed after the goal against them. Although Mississippi State pushed for a winning goal, a late chance by Laila Murillo was saved, resulting in the teams sharing the spoils.
Head coach Nick Zimmerman praised the team’s adjustments and their tenacity in creating opportunities throughout the match, despite Auburn’s challenging defensive strategy designed to frustrate the Bulldogs.
Mississippi State’s current record stands at 7-1-1 overall and 2-0-1 in conference play. However, the team fell three spots to No. 15 in the TopDrawerSoccer College Women’s Soccer National Rankings. This draw follows a strong performance from its players, including Laila Murillo, who was recently named SEC co-Freshman of the Week for scoring twice against Texas, marking her first multi-goal game. Perry had previously earned the title of SEC Offensive Player of the Week after her game-winning goal against No. 1 Tennessee.
The Bulldogs are preparing for their next challenge, facing off against Missouri in an away game set for Friday at 7 p.m. on SECN+.
Game Overview
- Match Result: 1-1 Draw
- Auburn Goal: Olivia Woodson (60′)
- MSU Equalizer: Ally Perry (Scored with right foot from edge of box)
- Final Chances: MSU had a late chance saved by Auburn
Team Performance
- Mississippi State Record: 7-1-1
- Conference Record: 2-0-1
- Rank: No. 15 in College Women’s Soccer National Rankings
Player Highlights
- Ally Perry: Recent performance highlights her leadership and confidence.
- Laila Murillo: SEC co-Freshman of the Week after scoring twice against Texas.
- Perry: Named SEC Offensive Player of the Week for game-winning goal against No. 1 Tennessee.
Next Match
The next challenge for the Bulldogs will be against Missouri on Friday at 7 p.m.
FAQ Section
What was the result of the Mississippi State vs. Auburn soccer match?
The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Who scored the goals in the match?
Auburn’s Olivia Woodson scored the opening goal, while Mississippi State’s Ally Perry equalized.
What is Mississippi State’s current soccer record?
Mississippi State currently has a record of 7-1-1 overall and 2-0-1 in conference play.
How did the team’s ranking change after the draw?
After the draw, the Bulldogs fell three spots to No. 15 in the TopDrawerSoccer College Women’s Soccer National Rankings.
When is Mississippi State’s next soccer game?
The Bulldogs will face Missouri on Friday at 7 p.m.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Starkville Prepares for Tennessee Football Matchup
Starkville Linebacker Kaesen McQuiller Earns Player of the Week Honors
Mississippi State Soccer Secures Comeback Tie Against Auburn
Mississippi State Bulldogs Set to Face Northern Illinois
Mississippi State Bulldogs Improve to 4-0 with Victory
Mississippi State Soccer Team Draws with Auburn
Mississippi State Bulldogs Aiming for Stronger SEC Start
Tennessee Faces Undefeated Mississippi State in Road Matchup
Mississippi State Bulldogs Maintain Perfect Record with Win Over Northern Illinois
Tennessee Football Faces Mississippi State in Starkville
Additional Resources
- SI: Bulldog Roundup
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs
- Hail State: Bulldogs Knock Off No. 1 Tennessee
- Google Search: Mississippi State Soccer
- NCAA: Mississippi State Women’s Soccer Upsets Tennessee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Soccer
- La Tech Sports: Women’s Soccer Preview
- Google News: Mississippi State Bulldogs
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
