Coach Conner Honored with Flowers and an Overtime Win

By Garrett Martin
Sports Director

The Texas State Bobcats beat the Houston Baptist Huskies at the Bobcat Soccer Complex 2-1 in the annual “Teal Game” after an overtime penalty kick goal from senior forward Kaylee Davis.  

Texas State wore teal accented jerseys to highlight ovarian cancer awareness in a number of ways.  Before the game, ovarian cancer survivor head coach Kat Conner was honored with a bouquet of flowers from her players and a standing ovation from the crowd.  

“Starting my fifth year of survivorship, it’s always a special time for me, especially every September,” Conner said.  “Four years ago, I was not even at this game, so it’s really special to be out here on the field and working with these young ladies. I’m so thankful I’m here.”

Conner said she did not know about the bouquet and that it was a surprise, and she had to hold back tears. 

“It’s special and I really appreciate it,” Conner said. “I know that’s from the parents and from the team so that’s what makes it very special for me.”

In the first half, the score ended at 1-1.  The Huskies scored first off a botched save and defensive attempt on the ball by senior goalkeeper Heather Martin.  Martin came out of the goalie box to intercept a charging Husky forward and knocked the ball loose.  However, the loose ball landed in good range of Husky Xya Balderas who put the ball on net. That was the first goal given up by Martin this season. 

The Bobcats had the chance to strike back when they were awarded a penalty kick late in the first half.  Davis took the penalty kick and scored on Husky goalkeeper Ashtyn Franks on the left side of the net.

In the second half, the Bobcats had a very good chance to break the tie with freshman Kamaria Williams’ shot on goal.  Williams got by a defender and had a one-on-one battle with Franks. Williams sent a rolling shot towards the net that appeared to go in but was sent away by a racing Husky defender.

Now in the first overtime period, the Bobcats had the momentum.  Texas State lived in Houston Baptist’s defensive zone sending multiple crosses over the goalie box and won two corner kicks.  

On one of the crosses, a Husky player touched the ball with her hand and the final penalty kick was awarded.  Davis put the shot home and sent the Huskies packing in the Bobcat’s fourth straight win to begin the 2019 season.  

Texas State travels to deep, west Texas next to take on UTEP in El Paso, Texas, on Sept. 6.  Then, on Sept. 8 they’ll take on New Mexico State just across the state border in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Check out the next broadcasted Bobcat soccer game on Sunday, Sept. 15 against McNeese on KTSW 89.9.

Featured image by Garrett Martin.