LAKE CHARLES-  Ninety minutes wasn't enough as McNeese and Houston battled into overtime and the Cougars scored off a rebounded shot five minutes into the first extra-time period to escape with a 2-1 win over the Cowgirls.

The Cowgirls (1-1-0) were able to keep pace with UH (2-0-0) despite being outshot 22 to three. It was a really solid showing for goalkeeper Jackie Kelly in her first career start.

First Half:
The Cougars were the aggressors early attacking from the outside in, they outshot McNeese 8-0 in the first half. 

Keeper Jackie Kelly was able to combat Houston's strong offensive force with a bunch of solid saves.

Second Half:
McNeese and Houston must have had an unspoken agreement at halftime as both teams came out of the half noticeably physical as the pace for the half was set.

Houston kept the push on but was unable to convert a few chances as they had as they fell victim to the post a few times. 

67' The Cowgirls were able to capitalize off of a Houston handball as preseason second-team All-SLC selection Anna Watson fired in a rocket from just beyond the box over the outstretched arms of Houston's Salma Ghazal. 

79' Inside the six, Houston sub. Anna Reysa was able to connect on a pass from Zionah Browne to knot the game at one. 

95' Houston was able to convert off of a missed shot that rebounded to Nadia Kammassah just out of the arms of Kelly.

McNeese Head Coach Drew Fitzgerald
"I thought our team played with a lot of grit, I think for the first 40-45 minutes we looked a bit timid and scared, and the stats reflect that. In the second half we came out and held our own. I think they were the stronger team for most of the match but I was really proud of our girl's effort."

"I thought Jackie Kelly played a great game, I think she made some big saves and kept us in it. She was composed with her feet, her distribution was great. It was a freshman in her first game and she did really well."

Notables:
Freshman Jackie Kelly made her first career start in net (9 Saves)
Keely Morrow and Mariah Ruelas each tallied a shot. 

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Next Game:
"Food Truck Friday" Match Vs. Louisiana Tech - 7 p.m. - Cowgirl Field