Ole Miss blanks Troy soccer, 5-0

Published 10:45 pm Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Troy women’s soccer fell to Ole Miss, 5-0, on Wednesday in front of a crowd of 212.

The Trojans never really threatened but head coach Chris Bentley feels the score doesn’t tell the full story.

“I felt like we had our chances. The result was a little unfair,” Bentley said. “We created in the attack here and there at times. We just need to get used to the speed of play and physicality they brought to us today.”

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The Troy (2-1-0) defense held its own against Ole Miss (3-0-0) for the majority of the first half. The Rebels finally got on the board in the 32nd minute on a corner kick that was deflected to the Rebels Olivia Harrison who drove the ball into the far post.

Harrison would strike again eight minutes later on a cross from Bethany Bunker.

Sydney Eddy knocked one home later in the half to give Ole Miss the 3-0 advantage.

The Trojans fought some space in the second half with Chelsey Williams and Alissa Jones making runs but were ultimately denied.

Ole Miss would add two second half goals to ensure their victory.

“I think we’re learning and we’re progressing. We’re young and today we got hit with some things we haven’t seen before,” Bentley said. “It’s a great experience for us moving forward.”

The Trojans defeated Alabama State to open the season and then knocked off Alcon State on the road.

Bentley says the team will put more emphasis on its defense.

“I think we push simple one-on-one defending,” he said. “Managing the box, too. I think if we do that we’ll be alright. The opportunities (for Ole Miss) were from far out because we were organized. I think if we work on that we will be fine.”

Troy travels to South Carolina for a double-dip against Wofford and Furman on Aug. 24 and 26 respectively.

The Trojans will return home on Aug. 31 to face Louisiana Tech and Stetson in the annual Trojan Classic.

The match versus Louisiana Tech is set for 3 p.m.