ROANE STATE SOCCER EARNS FIRST PLAYOFF VICTORY IN PROGRAM HISTORY

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — In a rain-soaked night that will be remembered for years, Roane State secured its first postseason victory in program history Sunday evening, defeating Southwest Tennessee 1-0 in the NJCAA Region VII quarterfinals at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex.

The historic win came courtesy of a first-half goal from Emma Leander, who capitalized on a perfectly timed assist from Zoey Rose just before halftime. Leander, a freshman, broke through the Southwest back line in the 44th minute, sidestepped the charging goalkeeper, and calmly slotted the ball into the net for what proved to be the game's only goal.

"That was just a fantastic build-up," head coach Donnie Green said. "When Zoey received the ball, she got her head up and made a great pass with her left foot through to Emma. Emma was in great position and, with her speed, took a touch around the keeper and walked it in."

The win was the culmination of a strategic gameplan that Roane State executed with precision despite challenging weather conditions. "It was a tough match," Green said. "We had a game plan going in, and the girls executed it really well. We had several other opportunities to score, but that one was all we needed."

While the offense provided the early spark, it was the Lady Raiders' defense that sealed the victory. Anchored by Victoria Moua, Jesla Uribe, Makhira Ralston, and Monica Bownds, Roane State's back line held firm against a late surge by Southwest Tennessee, which tallied nine total shots but couldn't find the equalizer. Green praised his defenders for maintaining their composure in critical moments.

"Southwest had one really good opportunity," Green said. "Jesla made a fantastic save herself. The shot came from right on the eight-yard mark, and she got her leg in to block it. That was the one time they really threatened us."

Goalkeeper Addison Roberts continued her standout season with another clean sheet—her third in a row—recording seven saves on the night. "Addison will save just about anything from outside," Green said. "She's been phenomenal for us down the stretch."

Roane State finished with 13 shots, five of which were on target, while Southwest Tennessee managed 12 shots and seven on goal. The narrow margin reflected just how tightly contested the matchup was between two defensive-minded teams.

Green credited Southwest's defensive organization and standout goalkeeper for keeping the game close. "They get everybody back except for one player and make it tough to score," Green said. "We knew what to expect, but we found a way through."

With the win, Roane State advances to face Motlow State Community College in the Region VII semifinals Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET from Lynchburg.

"It's just exciting," Green said. "This is history for our program, and these girls earned it. We're proud and ready for the next one."