CLINTON, Miss. - West Alabama men's soccer defended a 1-0 advantage for 74 minutes at Robert P. Longabaugh Field, knocking off No. 1 seed and tournament-host Mississippi College on Friday to advance to the Gulf South Conference Championship match for the fourth consecutive season.
With the win, the Tigers improve to 11-6-1 on the season, while GSC regular-season champions Mississippi College end their season with a 10-4-2 mark.
"It was another massive team performance, and I am very proud of these young men. Now we are on to the Final against a quality West Florida side, and we are really looking forward to it. Our lads are focused and know what it takes."
Jean-Baptiste Meyniel gave the Tigers the lead in the 16th minute, scoring from outside of the 18-yard box for his third goal of the season and second game-winner.
West Alabama refused to allow an equalizer, holding Mississippi College to five shots on the day with just one landing on target in the Tigers' shutout win.
Brad Louis (11-6-1) earned the win, making one save in his third shutout victory of the year. Hayden Mays (2-1-0) picked up a save and allowed one goal in the semifinal loss.
The Tigers will continue in the tournament, facing off against No. 3 seed West Florida in the GSC Championship match at Robert P. Longabaugh Field on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.
