Bobcats Defeat Clayton State; Hit the Road to North Georgia

The 'Cats are on a roll!

Five in a row. Undefeated in conference play. And one of only two teams remaining in the Peach Belt with an unbeaten conference mark.

GCSU recently defeated PBC opponent Clayton State this past Saturday 4 to 1. GCSU scored two goals in each half, claiming the victory with ease. Georgia College got goals from junior Megan McAlpin, and freshman Taylor Yee, Brittany Borror and Katie Taylor.

I just can't say enough about this freshman class. Where would the 'Cats be without these three key newcomers? Certainly not in the position GCSU is in now!

An aside: 13 of the 20 goals have been scored by Coach Clarks freshman. Remarkable!

This week, we turn our attention to nationally ranked (#25 during last weeks poll) North Georgia and Flager. The Bobcats hit the road to Dahlonega early in the week (Tuesday) and then end on Saturday afternoon against Flagler on senior day.

Here are the keys to a victory for GCSU vs. nationally ranked North Georgia:

FYI...North Georgia is unbeaten in conference play, along with GCSU. This will be a good one!

(Note: The polls will be released when arriving to Dahlonega. Will update you on North Georgia's new ranking, if any different.)

1) ROAD WARRIOR MENTALITY: There are two ways to break down this season for Georgia College. One of those parts has already passed with the crucial eight game home stand. Going 7 and 1 at home over the past month, now it's time to hit the road for five of GCSU's final six games. It's imperative for the Bobcats to keep their composure, have an aggressive mindset, and to not lack mental focus. If GCSU can be successful away from Bobcat Field, the Peach Belt Tourney will shape up nicely for GC.

2) OFFENSIVE SPACING: Being away from your home field can present some problems. Soccer dimensions vary upon which venue you are visiting. Against North Georgia this week, the field is shorter in length and width (measuring 116 x 66). Therefore, when attacking on offense early, the Bobcats must get in position earlier when attacking. The outside forwards can not crowd the middle of the field. I'll be watching to see how successful McAlpin and Taylor are in accomplishing this task. By getting the offense spaced out early, the midfielders and forwards will be able to find better seams in the North Georgia defense throughout the game.

3) BACKFIELD: North Georgia is nationally ranked for a reason. Forward Samantha Abrahart has 10 goals on the season, while Casey Smith has 12 assists! The backfield for the Bobcats can not let either of these two players slip through on offense.

4) CONTINUE THE TREND: GCSU has beaten two ranked opponents this season thus far. In September, the Bobcats upset no. 13 Florida Tech. At the time it was the highest ranked opponent GC has beaten in program history. That was, until, no. 8 Armstrong Atlantic was upset on Bobcat Field last week 2 to 1. Why not knock off another one!

This is the first road trip in over a month for Georgia College since going to Boca Raton, Fla. to open the season at the first of September. Let's hope this is a good one at North Georgia.

Talk to you from the city of gold! GCSU vs. North Georgia in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains! First kick is set for 5 p.m. with air time at 4:50 on 88.9 FM in Milledgeville or online at www.gcsuradio.com.