Texas A&M soccer opens exhibition slate with 1-0 victory over Rice

Ahead of their August 15 opener, Aggie soccer downed Rice, 1-0, in a triumphant — though shortened — return to Ellis Field on Saturday night to open exhibition play. Former A&M players Ali Russell and Katie Smith break down the biggest plays, storylines and much more.

The following is a press release from Texas A&M Athletics:

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION – MaKhiya McDonald scored the lone goal in nearly 50 minutes of play as the Texas A&M soccer team topped the Rice Owls, 1-0, in a weather shortened exhibition match Saturday evening at Ellis Field.

The teams were able to play just 4:49 before lightning strikes in the area caused a two-hour delay. The Aggies and Owls returned to pitch and played a 45-minute session.

Sydney Becerra found McDonald on a breakaway in the ninth minute to break the scoring seal. The Aggies outshot Rice, 10-1, including 4-0 in shots on goal.

The Aggies return to action Thursday when they travel to Dallas for a 7 p.m. match at SMU. The Maroon & White open the regular-season Thursday, Aug. 15 at Lamar and host Denver for the home opener Wednesday, Aug. 21.

TEXAS A&M QUOTES

Head Coach G Guerrieri
On the match...
“It was a good run out for the first time out. Playing a match five games into preseason is a challenge, but it was a good challenge. I thought Rice was well organized, so now we have some video to look at to get better. To see ourselves and get better for the next test.
Senior MaKhiya McDonald
On starting fall competition...
“I’m really excited to start off on a good note — 1-0 vs. Rice. After a long delay, being able to get out there and score a breakaway goal, something I’ve been working on for four years was pretty nice.”