WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's soccer team earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Davis & Elkins on Wednesday afternoon at the West Family Athletic Complex.

Jasper Newton provided the difference in the 44th minute, scoring his first collegiate goal off an assist from Joao Victor Sylvino. The strike came just before halftime, giving the Hilltoppers a 1-0 lead they would not relinquish.

Goalkeeper Shai'ya Fitzgerald anchored a strong defensive effort, recording seven saves to secure the clean sheet. Fitzgerald made several key stops in the first half to keep the match scoreless before Newton's breakthrough, including a pair of diving saves in the 24th and 29th minutes.

The Hilltoppers  held firm in the second half despite persistent pressure from the Senators, who fired 16 total shots. Fitzgerald turned away two more dangerous looks midway through the period, including a low strike from Chinedu Ikem in the 51st minute and a late attempt from Anthony Pereira in the 74th.

West Liberty also generated several chances to extend its lead, with Leyton Collier, E.J. Sablan, and Kevin Teather each putting shots on frame, but the Senators' defense kept the deficit at one.

The Hilltoppers' back line stayed organized through the final whistle, earning the team's second shutout of the season and handing Davis & Elkins its first loss in conference play.

West Liberty returns to action Sunday, October 19, hosting Frostburg State at 1 p.m. at the West Family Athletic Complex.