Jaleah Simmons’ first-half finish secures a 1-0 victory as Greenville Liberty closes out its home slate
Greenville, SC (June 24, 2025) – In their final home appearance of the 2025 season, the Greenville Liberty showed composure and control, earning a hard-fought 1–0 win over Southern Soccer Academy in front of a proud Upstate crowd.
The match started with a slow and steady rhythm as the players felt out the challenging conditions, but Greenville quickly established dominance in SSA’s half during the opening 30 minutes. Despite the scoreline staying level through the first hydration break, the Liberty dictated tempo and possession.
The breakthrough finally came in the 43rd minute. Lela Stark made an assertive run down the flank before threading a pinpoint cross into the box, where Jaleah Simmons calmly slotted it home—marking the game’s only goal and capping off a beautifully constructed play. Emma Kirlin made a critical save in the 38th minute to keep the match level before the Liberty’s goal, showcasing the defense’s reliability from back to front.
Head Coach Julie Carlson made tactical adjustments at halftime with Briyah Drayton replacing Stark and Ella Moss stepping in for Morgan De Barros. More rotations followed throughout the second half to keep fresh legs on the pitch, including a pair of changes in the 55th minute and three more in the final 20’. Despite the narrow scoreline, Greenville’s midfield and back line held firm, allowing few chances and absorbing late pressure with discipline. After three minutes of stoppage time, the whistle blew on a fourth consecutive win for the Liberty—capping an impressive run of form and a strong finish to the home campaign.
Jaleah Simmons was deservedly named Woman of the Match for her first-half goal and overall impact. Greenville now turns its focus to the final stretch of the regular season with playoff hopes very much alive. The team will hit the road for its final two matches, playing a makeup game at Knoxville on Thursday before finishing the season against rival-Asheville SC on Saturday.
