HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (August 18, 2024) – The University of North Alabama soccer team played in the first-ever collegiate soccer match at Joe Davis Stadium on Sunday night in Huntsville, making history with in-state rival Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks won 5-0.

Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium is home to Huntsville City FC, a professional soccer team in the MLS Next Pro league.

The Lions (1-1) were the early aggressors on Sunday with two corner kicks in the first five minutes, but Jacksonville State (2-0) protected the net and scored back-to-back goals in the ninth and 11th minutes to take the first half lead.

The 2-0 advantage later grew by three in the second half behind braces from JSU duo Melissa Kuya-Strobel and Naroa Domenech. Salome Kerguillec had three assists for the Gamecocks.

For UNA, shots were recorded by sophomore Maddie Reynolds, junior Lexi Vernsey, senior Hope Lensing and fellow senior Haley Patterson. Patterson is a native of nearby Madison, Ala. and prepped less than 30 minutes away from Joe Davis Stadium at James Clemens High School.

Despite the loss, UNA held a 5-4 advantage in corner kicks.

The Lions are back in action on Thursday, August 22 at Alabama. Kickoff from Tuscaloosa is scheduled for 7 p.m. This will be UNA's second trip to Alabama in the last three seasons.

For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.