It could possibly be the end of hopes in clinching a berth in the SEC Tournament as just three regular-season games remain.
It’s a must-win situation for the Aggies after a week of underperformance that threatens to leave Texas A&M out of the 12-team field in Pensacola.
On Thursday night, A&M will look to turn the tide for the 90 minutes of a dual against Missouri at Ellis Field. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT.
“Out of the last three games, we have to win two and draw the other one at the worst,” A&M head coach G Guerrieri said on Monday. “We have painted ourselves in the corner because of the competitive nature of the SEC.”
With their only SEC win coming against archrival Texas, Guerrieri & Co. have been continually seeking and taking action towards consistent play to ensure a ticket to the SEC Tournament.
However, given their poor offensive performances all year long, the Aggies are on the outside looking in.
Last Friday, A&M scored just its second goal of the conference slate, but it came in a 4-1 loss at LSU.
That theme came to be a haunted theme, as the Ags have yet to burst forth with more positive results.
The Ags left Baton Rouge with a loss and down a key player due to a right leg injury to Mia Scranton.
“Having Mia go down was a hit to them,” Guerrieri said. “Bringing in Tessa (Lavender) in now to fill in those gaps should help us out.”
The Aggies are at the final stretch of the SEC season, and beginning Thursday, each game will be make-or-break for A&M.
Thursday’s match with Mizzou must be a statement match as A&M looks to answer any doubts or uncertainty.
“Pressure means that there is something on the line and that people are watching,” Guerrieri said. “Here in the SEC, especially at Texas A&M, as the most successful program in the league and the state means that the pressure is always on us.”
Mizzou’s lineup features an imbalance in players, setting a heavier attention to the midfield from freshman Aly Bryant to senior Bella Carrillo.
Meanwhile, Guerrieri’s key pieces are forward Leah Diaz, midfielders Trinity Buchanan and Leah Pirro and defender Bella Yakel.
Hailey Chambliss and Brianna Buels thrive as Missouri's top goal scorers with two goals apiece, while Buchanan and Diaz top A&M’s scoring leaders with five and three goals, respectively.
On defense, Mizzou has allowed 19 goals on 157 shots through 14 games played.
Alternatively, the Aggies have conceded 16 times on 150 shots through 14 games played, with sophomore goalkeeper Maysen Veronda having 20 saves on the season.
With emotions and questions arising, A&M must make a 180-degree turnaround beginning Thursday.
