MCC soccer to open up division play in "The Battle of I-59" v. Jones Co.

(MERIDIAN) – The Meridian Community College soccer teams got off to a solid start this past weekend in the Shelton State Invitational Tournament.

Both the Eagles and Lady Eagles traveled to Tuscaloosa, AL and faced a pair of Alabama schools.

The Lady Eagles played traditional national power- host-Shelton State in game one of the tournament on Friday.

After being down 3-1, the Lady Eagles rallied to score 2 unanswered goals to scrap out a 3-3 tie.

“I though that we played really well,” said head soccer coach Alex George.

“Shelton State is usually a top-15 national team so for us to be down and then comeback to tie up the game, with chances to win down the stretch also, was a positive sign.”

The MCC men’s squad posted a dominating performance in game two of the tournament on Friday afternoon.

The Eagles faced Marion (AL) Military Institute and defeated them soundly by a score of 8-0.

MCC was led by sophomore standout, Terry Silva of Starkville. Silva notched a hat trick by scoring three goals.

“I think that we’re starting to find some chemistry on the men’s team,” said George.

“We’ve still got to work on something’s, but I like where we are as a team, we’re getting confidence.”

Both MCC squads will look to start their MACJC South Division play on a positive note when they host rival- Jones County Junior College, a game sometimes referred to as “The Battle of I-59” (in reference to the main thoroughfare that connects the two schools).

With the respective schools located just an hour away, Coach George expects an intense ballgame.

“When you enter MACJC play it’s anybody’s ballgame,” said George.

“But again, I like where we are and like how we’re gaining confidence.”

Jones Lady Bobcats come into the game with a 1-0 record after defeating Bossier Parrish last week, while the Bobcats are 0-1 after losing to Holmes.

MCC will be hosting a soccer tailgate in conjunction with the home openers for the soccer teams.

Students, staff, faculty and fans are encouraged to attend.

Lady Eagles take to the field at 5:00 PM with the men’s game slated for 7:15 PM