The Southern Miss soccer team faced Arkansas State for its season-opening game Aug. 23, providing some freshmen players an early chance to display their talent.

“We wanted to give everyone a chance to play,” said first-year USM coach Mohammed El-Zare. “There were many players on the team to be proud of, players who came in and did a wonderful job for us.”

A pair of freshmen did a superb job for the Eagles, helping to start the season with a record of 0-0-1.

Southern Miss trailed 2-1 in the second period, but an unassisted goal by freshman Adriana Garcia in the 65th minute tied the game. Fellow freshman Brittany Taylor played as keeper during the second period and overtime. Taylor recorded five saves, thus securing the Eagles a 2-2 tie.

There were other key playmakers. Chelsea Cruthirds, a senior forward from Sorrento, La., scored early in the game with an assist from senior Mischa Tice. Lindsey Schwaner, veteran goalkeeper from Mandeville, La., played the first period and recorded one save with a pair of goals against the Red Wolves.

“Overall, we showed a lot of character,” El-Zare said. “I am proud of the whole team.”

Information for this article was provided by southernmiss.com.