Coming off a crucial 3-0 conference win against Oklahoma, the No. 13 Vanderbilt Commodores (7-2-1, 1-1-1 SEC) will look to bolster their SEC record at Texas (2-7-1, 0-3) on Sept. 26.
Offensive outbreak
Vanderbilt fought for a much-needed win against No. 24 Oklahoma after starting conference play with a 0-0 draw against LSU and a 2-1 loss at Arkansas. The win over the Sooners was the first time Vanderbilt’s offense scored more than two goals since its match against Yale on Aug. 29. The offensive resurgence was powered by goals from Ellett Smith, Maci Teater and Sydney Watts. Watts has been a force to be reckoned with as of late; 55.6% of her shots this year have been on target. The energy on the offensive front may be just what the Commodores need to secure a solid SEC win and improve their NCAA Tournament resume.
Texas’ stellar offense
Vanderbilt needs to find offensive momentum on the road in Austin to outperform the Longhorns’ explosive attack. As the defending SEC Tournament champions, Texas is well accustomed to high pressure games and postseason success. Despite its recent lack of form, Texas has consistently put the ball in the back of the net, scoring nine goals in its past six games.
The Longhorns’ dynamic offense is led by first-year Ava McDonald and sophomore Amalia Villarreal, who have scored a combined 10 goals this season. The dynamic duo is young but very accomplished. McDonald has displayed international success with the U.S. Women’s Youth National Soccer Team, leading them to a runner-up finish at the 2023 Pan-American Games. Villarreal has also had a short but highly successful career so far. She was awarded SEC Freshman of the Year after her breakthrough freshman season. These high energy players could present a challenge defensively for the Commodores.
Shutting down a shootout
The Commodores’ backline, with the help of heart stopping saves by graduate Sara Wojdelko, were able to shut out No. 24 Oklahoma. The Sooners’ offense has been explosive this season, thanks to the dominance of star players Naomi Clark and Kayla Keefer. Clark has maintained a shots-on-goal percentage of 68% while Keefer has had eight assists this season.
Vanderbilt’s impressive defensive performance was led by defenders Hannah McLaughlin and Mary Beth McLaughlin. Vanderbilt’s victory should give its defense the crucial confidence boost that it needs to secure more signature wins in the second half of the season. Wojdelko’s commanding presence in the goal will also add an extra level of security for the Commodores’ defense. Vanderbilt will need to lock up the Longhorns’ offense-centric team to secure an important SEC win on the road.
Vanderbilt will play Texas in Austin on Friday, Sept. 26 at 6 p.m. CDT.
