LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The West Alabama Tigers (2-5-3, 1-3-3 GSC) are gearing up for a pair of challenging Gulf South Conference road matches this week, facing Mississippi College on Friday, October 18, at 1 p.m., followed by a clash with Delta State on Sunday, October 20, also at 1 p.m.

West Alabama has had a tough offensive season, scoring just eight goals in 10 games, averaging 0.80 goals per game. Despite their offensive struggles, the Tigers' defense, led by goalkeeper Dior Wilson, has been strong. Wilson has recorded 58 saves on the season, boasting an impressive save percentage of .817 and three shutouts. Defensively, the Tigers have only allowed 1.3 goals per game, but they must improve their offensive output to compete with the high-scoring teams they will face this week.

On the offensive front, Aileen Charles is a key contributor, leading the team with three goals. She is supported by Lily Graham, who has scored two goals and provided one assist, and Selis Demirci, who has contributed one goal and one assist. Emily Callahan has also been active, leading the team in shots with 17, though she has yet to find the back of the net.

Mississippi College enters the weekend as one of the top teams in the GSC, currently sitting at 7-4-1 overall and 5-1-1 in conference play. The Choctaws come into the match with a more potent offense, scoring 2.90 goals per game. With players like Jaylen Bodry (five goals) and Margherita Giubilato (four goals, two assists) leading the charge, MC is a constant attacking threat. Defensively, they have only allowed 11 goals in 10 matches, and goalkeeper Jessi Carro has registered a 1.22 goals-against average.

The Tigers will face Delta State on Sunday following the Mississippi College match. The Lady Statesmen have had a tough season but remain competitive in the conference. With one win in the GSC, Delta State will aim to capitalize on its home-field advantage. The Lady Statesmen have scored 16 goals in 10 matches, averaging 1.60 per game, double the Tigers' offensive output. Delta State's offense is led by Ali Sullivan, who has tallied four goals and two assists. On the defensive side, they have allowed 12 goals, giving them a goals-against average of 1.20 per game. Goalkeeper Sierra Pierce has been solid between the posts, registering 37 saves with a .755 save percentage.

Despite the challenges, West Alabama's defense remains resilient. The team will need to maintain a disciplined backline and continue to rely on Wilson's strong performances in goal to keep their opponents at bay.

Friday's matchup against the Choctaws is set for 1 p.m. while Sunday's contest against the Statesmen is also set for 1 p.m.