Columbus State spoils Laker home opener with 3-0 shutout victory
Clayton State women fall to 3-2-1 overall and 0-2 in the Peach Belt Conference

MORROW, Ga. – September 19, 2007 – After five grueling road contests to start the 2007 season, the Clayton State Laker women’s soccer team finally had its long-awaited home opener on Wednesday night against Peach Belt Conference rival Columbus State. However, the visiting Cougars spoiled the evening with a 3-shutout at Laker Field.

After starting the season 3-0-1, Clayton State has now dropped two straight to fall to 3-2-1 overall and 0-2 in the Peach Belt.

Clayton State entered the game playing short-handed without the services of senior forward Olaitan Yusuf. The two-time Division II All-American was serving a one-game suspension for a red card ejection from Saturday’s game at Armstrong Atlantic. Without Yusuf in the line-up, the Lakers’ offensive chances were limited.

Columbus State used its speed and quickness, keeping Clayton State’s defense off balanced for much of the game. The Cougars had 28 shots to only two for Clayton State.

Following the first 15 minutes of scoreless soccer, Columbus broke through with the first goal in the 17th minute as Rachel Walthall scored in front of the goal off a cross from Hannah Ospina. Twelve minutes later, the Cougars made it 2-0 as Jessica Woodson split the Laker defense at midfield and fed Stephanie Parrish on an incoming pass for a goal from the left side of the penalty box.

Columbus State received an insurance goal in the 82nd minute when Woodson scored on a header off a cross from Kellie Myles.

Clayton State goalkeeper Whitney Jowers recorded eight saves.

Clayton State travels on Saturday for a 4:30 p.m. contest at USC-Aiken.