KENNESAW, Ga. — Stetson (0-2-0) fell 2-0 to Kennesaw State (1-1-0) on Sunday at Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium. The Hatters and Owls battled to a scoreless halftime draw before Kennesaw State found the back of the net twice in the second half.
The match opened with both teams battling for possession, as early fouls and defensive pressure kept either side from finding much offensive rhythm. Stetson's Natalia Dorn recorded the Hatters' first shot at 3:05, but her attempt went wide. Stetson continued to create opportunities as the half progressed, earning multiple corner kicks, including one in the 28th minute.
Kennesaw State created a late opportunity to break the deadlock, but Clare Boesel came up with a crucial save at 43:29 to deny Anabel Orozco and send the match into halftime tied 0-0.
The Hatters continued to search for the opening goal early in the second half, with Eva McCoy recording a shot in the 58th minute and Stetson earning another corner in the 62nd minute. Kennesaw State broke through in the 53rd minute, however, before adding a second goal in the 86th minute as the Hatters fell 2-0.
"A hard-fought game in extreme heat. Kennesaw defended well and were difficult to break down. We had moments where we generated opportunities but lacked the execution on the day to put them to the sword," Stetson head coach Jamie Souza said. "Credit to Kennesaw for being good in their game plan and taking what chances came their way. We went for it the last 20 minutes and conceded when we were committing players forward to get us back into the game. We look forward to a week of prep for Troy next weekend."
Stetson Top Performers
Looking Ahead
The Hatters hit the road again next Sunday, Aug. 23, traveling to Troy for a 1:00 p.m. matchup at the Troy Soccer Complex in Troy, Alabama.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
