CARROLLTON, Ga. – The Wolves' home opener at University Soccer Field was exhilarating, with a roaring crowd of 417. However, West Georgia's late rally came up just short as Jacksonville State escaped with a 3-2 win on Thursday night. The loss moves UWG to 0-1-0 on the season, while the Gamecocks open 1-0-0.

The first half was all about defense for the Wolves, whose physical play rattled JSU's high-powered offense after Amelia Jacobs broke through in the 16th minute. Despite the Gamecocks dominating the possession in the first half, the Wolves stood strong. Goalkeeper Siani Jones stood tall the rest of the half, making four saves to keep the deficit at just one heading into the break.

The second half turned into an offensive showcase. JSU doubled their lead when Louise Featherstone scored in the 79th, assisted by Lara Aitken. With their backs against the wall, the Wolves responded as Noemi Casique cut the lead in half in the 87th minute off a perfect pass from Campbell Taylor. In a matter of seconds, JSU's Emma Reeder answered to regain momentum. However, Casique wasn't done yet. Just seconds after Reeder's strike, the Florida native buried her second goal of the night to pull UWG back within one. The Wolves pushed forward in the final moments, but ultimately ran out of time. 

The excitement isn't over yet, as West Georgia is set to make history. The Wolves head to Lexington, KY for their first-ever SEC matchup against the University of Kentucky on Sunday, August 17 at 1:00 p.m., streamed live on the SEC Network.