TUSCALOOSA, ALA. - The Mississippi State (2-10-0, 1-4-0) soccer team fought hard, but it was an own goal that did them in, as the Bulldogs fell 1-0 at Alabama (5-8-0, 1-4-0).

State took the play to Alabama from the start of the game. Two minutes into the game, Mariclaire Fancher sent a pass up the middle. Ashley Hood raced after the ball, and tried to chip it over UA netminder Kara Gudmens. But Gudmens made a sprawling stop, preventing the Bulldogs from taking the early lead.

MSU had another great opportunity in the 21st minute. Kevyn Shelledy sent the ball into the left corner, where Ashley Hood took control. Hood dribbled along the end line, and sent a pass in front to Treena Ferguson, who nailed a shot of the right post.

The game started to go back-and-forth midway through the first half, as both teams had multiple chances. Alabama began to take control in the second half. The Tide pelted MSU goalkeeper Taryn Holland with four straight shots 15 minutes in. After MSU cleared the ball out of bounds, Jessica Deegan sent a corner kick toward the net. State closed on the goal, and attempted head the ball away. But instead, it was headed into State’s goal, and Alabama took a 1-0 lead.

With five minutes left, Treena Ferguson had a free kick that she sent screaming toward the left corner of the net. But, Gedmuns made a diving stop, preserving the victory.

The Bulldogs return to action on Sunday afternoon when they travel to Auburn for a 2:00 p.m. match. You can follow all the action live at www.mstateathletics.com.