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JACKSONVILLE, Ala.- The Wolves' season opener at the Jax State Soccer Complex was an exciting battle, as West Georgia held the lead for the majority of the match before Jacksonville State rallied for a late equalizer Wednesday night. The draw moves both teams to 0-0-1 on the season.

With 23 minutes remaining in the first half, Noemi Casique continued her dominance against the Gamecocks, scoring the opening goal of the match off an assist from Morgan Setzer. Casique has now scored in consecutive matches against Jacksonville State after recording a brace in last year's season opener. Setzer also got her season off to a strong start, recording the first assist of her collegiate career.

The Wolves' back line remained strong throughout the remainder of the first half, while Emily Sanabria recorded three saves to preserve UWG's 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.

The Gamecocks came out firing in the second half, registering four shots within the first five minutes, but Sanabria stood strong against the early attack. Jax State continued to apply pressure throughout the half, but the Wolves' defense held firm for the majority of the period.

With just 4:44 remaining, Rebecca Sierra-Burciaga found the equalizer for the Gamecocks off an assist from Amelia Jacobs.

Despite the result, Sanabria finished the night with 12 saves, the most by a UWG goalkeeper in a season opener during the program's Division I era. While the Wolves were unable to secure the victory, Head Coach Mallory Sayre was proud of the fight her team displayed.

"I was proud of the consistent effort and energy shown throughout the match. Seeing the team fight through adversity will always be a positive for me, and I look forward to seeing that same fight throughout the season," Sayre said.

The Wolves now turn their attention to their 2026 home opener, returning to the City of Dreams on Sunday, Aug. 16, to face Mercer at 6 p.m. at University Soccer Field. Admission to UWG soccer is free, so make plans to come out and support the Wolves in their home opener.