Carbondale Reporter

The Southern Illinois University women's soccer team (0-0-1) began its season with a 2-2 draw against Jackson State on Thursday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi.

McKensey Bunch was the standout player, scoring both goals for the Salukis. Bunch's first goal came from a corner kick by Ashlyn Henrie in the 10th minute.

"I thought we started great in the first and created a number of opportunities. We were fortunate enough then to get a lead," head coach Graeme Orr said. "I think when you come away from home to a team that's been in the NCAA tournament when you get those chances you have to take them."

Jackson State equalized in the 39th minute of the first half through Kendyl Terrell.

The second half remained quiet until the 80th minute when SIU was awarded a free kick. Quinn Sowders took it quickly and found Bunch, who scored to give the Salukis the lead.

However, just one minute later, Jackson State responded and tied the game at 2-2. Neither team managed to score again before time expired.

"Obviously extended halftime for the lightning delay kind of slowed the game down a bit, but ultimately all four goals that came in the game came from set plays so that shows the vitality there but happy enough to get a point on the road," Orr added.

Southern Illinois will play again on Sunday, Aug. 18, at UT Martin.

Follow updates on Southern Illinois University women's soccer via Twitter @SIU_Soccer, Facebook at Facebook.com/SalukiSoccer, and Instagram @SIU_Soccer. Fans can also download the "Salukis" Mobile App on both Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store.