The Alabama soccer team split its opening weekend against Kennesaw State and Memphis.

Alabama (1-1) had a breakout opening game against Kennesaw State Friday night, winning 5-1. However, the Crimson Tide was unable to continue Friday night’s momentum and fell to Memphis 2-1 Sunday.

“We had a much tougher opponent that we had to face,” coach Todd Bramble said. “Memphis is a really good team, a veteran team. So it was a big challenge. I was just curious to see how we would respond to that. It was our first weekend where we would have to play on Friday and turn around and be ready to play on Sunday. It mimics our conference play that we have coming up.”

The Tide started strong in Sunday night’s game. Senior Merel van Dongen scored the lone goal in the 16th minute with a penalty kick.

“I think it was just good pressure from the ladies,” van Dongen said. “[Memphis’ Marissa Duguay] made a tackle inside of the box, which is always risky, the ref can go [penalty kick] and you just got to bury it. I think we kept composure after the goal.”

Alabama maintained its pressure on Memphis throughout the rest of the first half but lost power in the second. Memphis scored its two goals in the 49th and 71st minutes. Last season, Alabama also lost to Memphis 2-1.

“I think this team has the right approach, even though Memphis is a great team,” Bramble said. “We had a tough result against them last year. I think this team’s got the mentality that we’re not going to be scared of any team or any situation. I think they showed that early in the game. We’re pleased with their mental approach to these games right now.”

Alabama will head to Tennessee this weekend to play Austin Peay State and Middle Tennessee.