MARIETTA, Ga. — The No. 18 University of Tennessee Southern women's soccer team closed out the 2026 regular season Sunday afternoon, falling 2-0 to No. 23 Life University at Lupo Family Field.
The Firehawks conclude the regular season with a 13-3-1 overall record and an 11-2 mark in Southern States Athletic Conference play.
Life struck first in the 22nd minute to take a 1-0 lead despite a competitive opening stretch between two of the conference's top programs.
UT Southern generated several quality chances throughout the first half in search of an equalizer. Kamilia Tayebi forced an early save, Osiris Rodriguez placed a shot on target, and Mia Saum nearly leveled the match in the 26th minute when her attempt rattled the crossbar. Despite creating dangerous opportunities, the Firehawks went into halftime trailing by a goal.
The Firehawks continued to press after the break. Courtney Hicks narrowly missed the target early in the second half, while Karla Montiel, Tayebi, and Ebony Wright each generated chances as UT Southern pushed for the equalizer.
Life doubled its lead in the 58th minute, taking a 2-0 advantage.
UT Southern continued battling throughout the final half hour and created several late opportunities. Luella Cramer put an attempt on frame in the closing stages, but the Firehawks were unable to solve the Life defense.
Life finished with a 13-9 edge in shots, while UT Southern placed four attempts on goal. Montiel, Tayebi, Cramer, and Rodriguez each registered shots on target for the Firehawks.
Freshman goalkeeper Sam De Gier recorded three saves and kept the match within reach throughout the afternoon with several key stops against the nationally ranked Runnin' Eagles.
Although the result did not go their way, the Firehawks completed an impressive regular season that included a 13-match unbeaten streak, a victory over then-No. 10 William Carey, and a prolonged stay near the top of the conference standings.
SSAC Tournament Outlook
With the regular season complete, the Firehawks finish third in the SSAC standings at 11-2 in conference play. UT Southern will host a first-round SSAC Tournament match later this week against either Dalton State or Thomas. Final tournament pairings will be announced once all remaining conference matches are completed and tiebreakers are finalized.
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