Lipscomb Advances to ASUN Finals with Overtime Win Over Jacksonville State

By David Oglesby

Skylar Cole looks to gain advantage on Jacksonville' players

In a thrilling semifinal showdown at the Lipscomb Soccer Complex, the Lipscomb Bisons edged out the Jacksonville State University Dolphins 1-0 in overtime to secure their spot in the ASUN Conference finals. Battling through chilly, damp conditions, both teams displayed fierce determination, but it was Lipscomb who emerged victorious with a dramatic own goal just past the nine-minute mark in extra time.

The first half saw Jacksonville State control much of the possession, relentlessly testing Lipscomb’s defense with a series of attacks and corner kicks. The Bisons struggled to find their rhythm early on, managing only a single shot—a free kick that narrowly missed catching the Dolphins’ goal. Despite Jacksonville State’s heavy pressure and multiple corner opportunities, Lipscomb’s defense held strong, keeping the scoreline level.

Toward the end of the half, Lipscomb began to assert more control, generating offensive momentum with two corner kicks in quick succession, though they were unable to convert those chances. The half closed scoreless, setting the stage for a tense second period.

Lipscomb came out in the second half with renewed energy and a more aggressive approach. They quickly settled into a rhythm, controlling the pace and pressing forward. The match’s physical intensity escalated, resulting in several cautions as the referee handed out a total of eight yellow cards—four to each side—to maintain order in the heated contest.

The Bisons’ best scoring opportunity in regulation came in the 28th minute of the second half when a well-placed corner kick narrowly missed the target. Jacksonville State responded with their own close chance, a shot that just evaded the fingertips of Lipscomb’s goalkeeper, Kaina Cesar. The tension mounted as both teams fought hard, but neither could break the deadlock by the end of the 90 minutes.

As the game moved into overtime, the game remained tense and Jacksonville’s Lina Ballmann received a yellow card that led to a free kick that sailed over the goal. Soon after just before the nine minute mark play stopped when a Jacksonville player was injured. Lipscomb’s Midfielder Bella Carapazza launched a quick attacking move into the box once play resumed which eventually led to Lipscomb’s Maddy Rhodes delivering a precise cross into the penalty area. In an unfortunate twist, a Jacksonville State defender inadvertently turned the ball into their own net, handing Lipscomb the decisive goal.

Maddy Rhodes is credited with the goal, assist by Tatum Ahlemeyer, igniting celebrations among the home crowd and sealing Lipscomb’s 1-0 victory.

Statistically, Lipscomb outshot Jacksonville State 18 to 13, with both teams registering five shots on target. The match was a showcase of skill, resilience, and competitive spirit — hallmarks of college soccer at its best.

Looking ahead, Lipscomb will face North Florida in the ASUN Championship final next Sunday, November 9th at 1 p.m. at the Lipscomb Soccer Complex in Nashville. Riding the momentum of this tough semifinal win, the Bisons are determined to capture the conference title once again.

Lipscomb’s women’s soccer program boasts a strong tradition of success, having won multiple ASUN Conference Championships, including recent titles in 2018, 2019, 2021, and most recently in 2024. With their solid defense and sharp offensive execution, the Bisons remain a formidable contender poised to add another championship to their storied legacy.