By Luke Plansky

Daily Correspondent

The ISU women’s soccer team was unable to come out of its opening road trip with a win, settling for a double-overtime tie against Mississippi State on Friday and a 2-0 loss to Mississippi on Sunday.

The Cyclones (0-1-1) were scoreless on the weekend, but turned in a quality defensive effort against the Lady Bulldogs.

In the two extra periods, Iowa State kept Mississippi State to only one shot, while taking six of its own. Joanna Haig recorded three saves while Stephanie Kaphingst led ISU with seven shots on goal, including a ball off the post just before the end of regulation.

“Our defense was solid [Friday],” said coach Rebecca Hornbacher. “The team overall played very organized defensively. The level of play was outstanding and is definitely something to build upon.”

Forwards Kristina Baumann and Leslie Hill had three shots as well.

In Sunday’s contest, the Cyclones were stymied offensively. The Rebels controlled possession for much of the game, out-shooting Iowa State 13-5.

The University of Mississippi scored aproximaely 32 minutes into the game, as Chrissy Strini set up Amanda Verkin with an assist for a 10-yard goal. Strini knocked it in off the crossbar midway through the second half. It was both players’ second goal in as many games, which were both Mississippi wins.

The Rebels were without senior all-conference forward Kelly Renie, who missed the weekend due to injury. Playing into the home team’s favor was a humid, 88 degree temperature in Oxford.

“I think [the heat] was a big factor and played to our advantage because we’ve been training in this heat,” said Ole Miss coach Steve Holeman.

“I can’t imagine it was as hot for Iowa State in their preseason. If we were to play this game on a Friday night you’d probably see a different result – maybe not a different score line, but you’d see a different game. They’re a lot more competitive when it’s a little cooler, and I think they’re going to do well this season.”

Haig had two saves Sunday while Baumann had three shots on goal for the Cyclones.

Iowa State opens up its home schedule on Friday against Purdue. Game time is set for 7 p.m. in the first of two Cyclone games in the Big 12/Big Ten Challenge.

– ISU and Mississippi State media relations contributed to this article