Despite Some Challenges, Virginia Tech Defeats SMU 1-0

Emelyn Giron

Staff Writer

October 10, 2024

BLACKSBURG — No. 21 Virginia Tech faced off against SMU for the first time at Thompson Field on Thursday evening. The Hokies (10-3-2, 5-1-1 ACC) salvaged a 1-0 win against the Mustangs (6-6-2, 2-3-2) with a second-half surge, marking their 4th consecutive win at home.

The two programs had never met before, as 2024 marks SMU’s first season in the Atlantic Coast Conference. 

Tech got off to a slow start and could not find its spark until the 64th minute, when junior Taylor Price scored a beautiful header off a well-shot corner kick assist from sophomore Natalie Mitchell — Price’s 6th goal of the season. 

“I was happy we got a set piece goal tonight,” Hokies head coach Chugger Adair said postgame. “I think that’s something we put a lot of effort in.”

Despite the late win, Virginia Tech had a couple of struggles concerning the midfield. A lot of space was being left open all throughout the first half, which allowed SMU to make a couple of dangerous shots on goal, scaring the Hokies.

Additionally, the lack of midfield movement slowed the Hokies down a lot, limiting their offensive opportunities.

“I think for us, we’ve condensed the midfield more defensively, and we didn’t do a great job, especially in the first half.” Adair said. “We got to work a little bit on movement to create space and pockets so we can transition to get the ball forward.”

The Hokies’ second half was definitely much better, especially after Price’s goal. More movement was being done by the wingers, but there was still a lack of scoring.

“I think we’d like to make a little more progress in our crossing and finishing, and have quality service into the box, which is something we will work on in the next couple of weeks,” Adair said.

Thursday’s match was the second-to-last home game of the season for Tech, and the Hokies will not be back at Thompson Field for the next couple of weeks. Their next matchup will be on Thursday, Oct. 24th, in Raleigh, N.C. against NC State (7 p.m. ET, ACC Network).