ITTA BENA, Miss. -- Mississippi Valley State and Southern University played to a 0-0 tie game in a windy condition Sunday afternoon.
 
The contest was highlighted by solid goalkeeping by Sarah Forde of Southern University who stood between Valley and victory. She dealt with the attacks from Mariana Balbao, Nykosi Simmons, Ernestina Abambila and Jayme Forcier expertly. On the other end of the field, Josee Primeau and Alexis Mansoor continued to show promise as they dealt with everything that came their way.
 
"You could tell Rita Gyasi (MVSU goalkeeper) was on holiday because of our defensive display," said MVSU head coach Fabio Boateng. "You have two central defenders who understand their roles and also being protected by workaholic Haley Hendricks in front of them.
 
"On the offensive side of the ball, we are still working on the partnership of Mariana Balboa and Nykosi Simmons but I am happy with the display of the team in general. We are close to our first win"
 
Simmons finished the game with six of the team's 16 shots – including four on goal. Abambila and Balboa also each attempted three shots and one on goal.
 
Gyasi had seven saves in the game.
 
Family Weekend
MVSU soccer will welcome family and friends as they return to action at home this weekend with a pair of contests. First to touch town will be Texas Southern University on Friday. Kick of is at 7 p.m. and on Sunday, the Devilettes will host Prairie View at 1 p.m.