JUST IN:Ward scores his second career brace as the No. 21 Soccer team progresses in the SEC Tournament.

The No. 21 ranked soccer team delivered a dominant performance in the SEC Tournament, securing a 3-1 victory over their opponent thanks to a stellar brace from forward Ward. The win propels the team into the next round of the tournament, keeping their postseason hopes alive and adding to their impressive campaign this year.

Ward’s second career brace was a showcase of his skill and timing. The first goal came early in the first half in the 23rd minute. After a well-placed corner from midfielder Taylor, Ward rose above the defenders and powered a header past the goalkeeper to give his team a crucial lead. The goal was a testament to his aerial prowess and positioning in the box, making him a constant threat from set pieces.

Just 15 minutes later, Ward struck again. This time, it was a clinical finish on the counter-attack. Midfielder Jackson intercepted a pass in midfield and delivered a quick through ball to Ward, who made a perfectly timed run behind the defense. With composure, he slotted the ball low into the corner of the net, doubling the team’s advantage and sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The game wasn’t without its challenges, however. The opposition fought back in the second half and pulled a goal back in the 59th minute through a well-executed free kick that caught the defense off guard. Despite the setback, the No. 21 team held firm, with goalkeeper Ellis making key saves to preserve their lead.

In the final stages of the match, midfielder Johnson sealed the victory with a third goal in the 84th minute, following a scramble in the box after a corner kick. Johnson’s strike made sure that the team’s lead was insurmountable and that their place in the tournament’s next round was secure.

Ward’s brace was undoubtedly the highlight of the match, but it was the team’s collective performance—solid defending, intelligent passing, and clinical finishing—that earned them the win. Head coach Davis praised the team’s resilience, noting that they showed great composure under pressure, particularly after the opponent’s goal. “Ward’s two goals were huge, but it was a team effort that got us across the line,” said Davis post-match.

With the win, the No. 21 soccer team advances to the semifinals of the SEC Tournament, where they will face their toughest test yet.