The University of Alabama’s soccer team is optimistic about its two home games this week after winning their first two matches of the year.

“I think the team this year is a lot different than other years,” senior defender K.K. Duffy said. “We’re very focused. The team is positive and very pumped about winning.”

The Crimson Tide started the year off with a 7-1 win against Kennesaw State.

“The good result should make the team feel good about the work they did during the offseason,” head coach Todd Bramble said.

Lee said the team did everything they discussed before the game and it helped them defeat Samford 2-1.

Duffy said her teammates came up big for the win.

“The first half of the game was very big for us,” Duffy said. “Laura Smith Lee and Lindsey Sillers were great and helped score for us.”

Bramble said he’s pleased with the early wins, but he’s not going to get too excited.

“Our team’s still a work in progress, but I’m very happy with the team so far,” Bramble said.

Freshman Laura Lee Smith was named the Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week with three goals in her two matches.

“She’s off to a fast start,” Bramble said. “We are very excited and pleased, but we know she is playing at a level we know she is capable of.”

Smith has had nine shots on goal in the two matches played so far. The team will face Memphis on Friday after losing to them 4-1 last year.

“It’s going to be a close game,” Bramble said. “Both the teams are fast-paced and have a lot of energy. It’s going to be decided by the team who takes advantage of their chances.”

Bramble said he hopes the fans come out and help give the team a good feeling during the game.

“I would love for the student body to come out and show the team their energy,” Bramble said. “It not only helps us, but it can also affect the visiting team too.”

Duffy said she hopes the team will come away with wins for the fans this year.

“It helps our team a lot when there are a lot of people,” Duffy said. “We hope our fans come out to see our games.”

A Week of Welcome BBQ will be held before the game for students on Friday.

The Tide will face Memphis on Friday at 7 p.m. and return to action on Sunday against New Mexico at noon.

“We have everything we need to be successful this year,” Duffy said. “We just have to stay focused on winning.”