The Valdosta State Blazers soccer team secured a scoreless draw against the No. 15 Lee University Flames on Wednesday night at the VSU Soccer Complex. The tie brings the Blazers' record to 4-3-3 overall and 3-2-2 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Flames now stand at 7-1-3 overall and 4-1-2 in conference play. A key factor in holding the ranked Flames was the stellar performance of freshman goalkeeper Alanna Zander, making her first career start for Valdosta State.
Lee University opened aggressively, with a shot by Emma Nelson early in the game that required a save from Zander. The Blazers soon mounted their own offensive push, as Ameliah Dixon found an opportunity on the right side of the field, but Lee's Abby Whitcomb knocked the shot away.
The Flames continued their offensive pressure, creating back-to-back scoring chances. Goalkeeper Zander, however, turned away both attempts. In the 28th minute, a foul by Sarah Hudson created another dangerous situation for the Flames, but the young Valdosta State keeper again made the save, denying Lee University a goal-scoring opportunity. As the first half concluded, Lee had one more attempt at the net, which Zander again successfully deflected, sending both teams into the locker room with the score tied at zero.
The defensive intensity continued into the second half. Early in the half, the Flames managed to get another shot on frame, but the freshman Zander once more came up with the save, maintaining the scoreless tie.
While Valdosta State's defense remained strong throughout the second half, the Blazers' offensive efforts intensified as the game neared its conclusion. Rachel Andrews found a lane for a shot, but Lee's Abby Whitcomb recorded the save. In the 85th minute, Jada Narcisse delivered a shot on target for Valdosta State, only to be denied by another save from Whitcomb. Neither team could ultimately find the back of the net, resulting in the game concluding in a tie.
Alanna Zander's debut as a starter was notable. The freshman goalkeeper faced a total of 23 shots from the No. 15 Lee University Flames and recorded an impressive 13 saves during the match, playing a critical role in securing the draw for the Blazers. Her performance ensured that Valdosta State prevented a top-ranked team from scoring at home.
