BIRMINGHAM – Even though the Jacksonville State soccer team was on the short end of a 3-1 result in an exhibition match with UAB on Friday evening in Birmingham, head coach Neil Macdonald saw many positives in his club's first competitive action of the season.

Macdonald was impressed with the response from the Gamecocks after surrendering the eventual game-winning goal with 16 minutes left in the second of three 30 minute sessions.  The Blazers broke the scoreless deadlock after posting the goal on a one-on-one situation.

Jax State put the pressure on UAB in the final 10 minutes of the second session with a trio of scoring chances, but could not post the equalizing goal.  The Gamecocks' had multiple on-goal shots from senior Kelsey Bright and freshman Madison Carruthers.  Carruthers was one two freshmen that started in their first collegiate soccer action.  Newcomer Danelle Lindo also earned a spot in the starting line up. Claire Petersen also saw minutes in a reserve role.

Carruthers turned in the equalizing goal in the first few minutes of the final period, but the Blazers regained the advantage with their second goal and would add an insurance goal with five minutes left in the contest. 

JSU finished with 10 totals shots with over half the chances coming on goal.

Macdonald spotlighted the freshmen contributions in their first collegiate action, while also noting the solid plat of sophomore goalkeeper Caroline Robinson.

The Gamecocks will wrap up the weekend of exhibition matches on Sunday, hosting the Jaguars of South Alabama.  Match time is set for 1 p.m. at the JSU Soccer Field.  Admission to all JSU soccer matches is free.  After the contest with USA, JSU opens the 20^th season of soccer on Friday, Aug. 21, hosting Ball State.