TUSCALOOSA, Ala – Gianna Paul opened up the scoring for Alabama just four minutes in, and it looked like Alabama would dominate the Bulldogs. However just over ten minutes later, Georgia equalized and despite the domination from the Crimson Tide, it was not enough as the game finished 1-1.
Paul used her pressing ability to win the ball back for Alabama in a great position and slotted the ball past the goalie for her sixth goal of the season, and it gave Alabama the early advantage. Felicia Knox got the assist, her second of the season.
Georgia was able to tie the game in the 15th minute through a Nicole Vernis goal, her second of the season. This was one of just a few chances Georgia had in this game, with Alabama holding the Bulldogs to just three shots on target, and only two total shots in the second half.
Coming into this game, Alabama had not lost to Georgia since 2010, and was carrying a huge unbeaten run at home. This game was also the SEC opener for the Crimson Tide, who had not lost a conference game all of last season, going a perfect 10-0.
This game showcases another big issue for the Crimson Tide, as a real lack of goals outside of Gianna Paul have hindered Alabama in a few games. There have been four ties in their last five games, with multiple 0-0 and 1-1 scorelines. Paul has six of the 12 total goals scored for Alabama this season, and she is just one of two players with double-digit shots on goal.
With a game against Mercer coming up, Alabama will look to find their footing before they begin a run of nine straight SEC games. The Crimson Tide will have to figure out how to score as a team if they want another memorable run in both the SEC and NCAA Tournament.
Joe Schatz is a senior writer for WVUA-FM Sports. He also co-hosts The Low Tide on 90.7 FM Sunday nights from 7-8 p.m. CT.
