LIVINGSTON, Ala. - West Alabama (4-4-3, 2-3-2) will face two crucial matchups, first against Mississippi College (5-3-1, 3-2) on Friday at 3:30 p.m. in Clinton, Mississippi, followed by Delta State (3-8-0, 1-5-0) on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. in Cleveland.
These games will be vital in determining West Alabama's position as they aim to improve their standing in the Gulf South Conference.
West Alabama has struggled offensively, scoring just 12 goals in 11 matches (1.09 goals per game) while conceding 13 (1.18 per game). They've generated 138 shots but only converted at a 0.087 shot percentage. The standout offensive contributors include
David Nunez (three goals, three assists),
Michael Bell (two goals, three assists), and
Joe Wright (three goals). Defensively,
Timon Dressel has been reliable in goal with a 0.794 save percentage, recording four shutouts in 990 minutes of play. The Tigers will need to address their inconsistency in both attack and defense, having allowed more shots (175) than they've taken (138) this season.
Mississippi College comes in with a potent attack, scoring 23 goals across nine matches (2.56 goals per game), significantly higher than West Alabama's output. Their top scorer, Lewis Matton (12 goals, three assists), has been a critical player, boasting an impressive 0.444 shot percentage. The Choctaws also have a strong supporting cast in Sergio Garrido (three goals, three assists) and Denis O. John (three goals). Mississippi College will attempt to exploit its higher shot efficiency (0.193 compared to UWA's 0.087) to break through West Alabama's defense. On the defensive end, the Choctaws have a solid keeper in Cole Turner, with a 0.800 save percentage and a 0.61 goals-against average over 444 minutes.
Delta State has endured a difficult season, conceding 27 goals (2.7 per game) while scoring just 12. They'll rely on John Mejia (three goals) and Leo Helguera (two goals, two assists) to provide some attacking spark, but their defense has struggled significantly, allowing 171 shots. Their goalkeeper, Lucas Rojas, has made 35 saves but faces pressure due to Delta State's defensive lapses, with the team allowing 2.70 goals per game. West Alabama is primed to capitalize on Delta State's defensive weaknesses, mainly through set pieces, given Delta State's tendency to concede corners and fouls.
West Alabama must find consistency on both sides of the pitch to secure crucial wins against Mississippi College and Delta State.
Friday's contest against Mississippi College is set for 3:30 p.m. in Clinton, Mississippi, while Sunday's matchup against Delta State is slated for 3:30 p.m. on Sunday in Cleveland.
