LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Jacksonville State soccer team surrendered a pair of second half goals as it dropped a 2-1 decision to New Mexico State in the first day of the Hotel Encanto Aggie Classic, hosted by NMSU.

The Aggies (1-0-1) scored the equalizing goal just moments after the halftime intermission. Mary Kate Koziol drilled a shot from 20 yards in the 46th minute. NMSU's Yolanda McMillion registered the eventual game-winning goal 17 minutes later with an unassisted goal from ten yards away. Both teams combined for 40 shot attempts with the Aggies taking 29 shots against the Gamecock defense. Jax State (0-3) turned in 11 shots, seven on goal.

“JSU soccer came out here to win,” said Gamecock head coach Julie Davis Carlson. “They came out with a lot of heart and determination as it showed early in the match with a quick goal. There are many lessons to learn from the match. We had some great performances from our starting eleven.” added Carlson.

JSU junior forward Chelsea Pelletier finished with six of the squad's 11 shots, which set a new career mark for the Fort Worth, Texas-native. JSU's goal came off the foot of Nathalee Lariviere and resulted in the Gamecocks' lone goal. The sophomore from Ontario, Canada gave the Red and White an early 1-0 lead just 94 seconds into the contest. Sophomore Eli Arthur dished out the assist on Lariviere's goal. Arthur set up Lariviere with a cross from ten yards out. JSU employed the two keeper system with Katelyn Geddings earning the starting nod. Ali Koenig was in goal for the final 45 minutes. The tandem combined for nine saves.

“This game has two halves and we won the first half, but we knew New Mexico State would come out in the second half with great energy. I am very proud of the effort of this team,” continued Carlson. “We have another tough match with North Texas on Sunday. They are one of the top teams in the Sun Belt Conference.”

Carlson's squad will visit White Sands National Monument on Saturday.

JSU concludes the Hotel Encanto Aggie Classic on Sunday, Aug. 29 against North Texas. Game time is set for Noon CST. UNT blanked Prairie View A&M 6-0 earlier on Friday. NMSU will take on the Panthers of PVAM following the JSU-UNT affair.