SALEM, W.Va. — The West Liberty University women's soccer team closes out its nonconference slate Sunday afternoon with a road matchup at Salem University. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. at the Bridge Sports Complex.

The Hilltoppers (2–12, 1–10 MEC) will look to finish the weekend on a high note after battling through a challenging stretch of Mountain East Conference competition. West Liberty has seen improved offensive production in recent weeks, highlighted by Perla Bäckberg's five goals and one assist — including the game-winner in a 1–0 victory over Davis & Elkins on Oct. 15.

Bäckberg leads the Hilltoppers in goals and points (11), while Maya Taggart has added two goals and two assists, and Marisa Knouff has provided steady midfield play with a team-high three assists. Goalkeeper Cianna Butera continues to rank among the conference leaders in saves with 113 stops, averaging more than eight per match.

West Liberty enters Sunday's matchup with momentum after dominating the Tigers in their first meeting of the season — an 8–0 victory on Sept. 28 at the West Family Athletic Complex. In that game, the Hilltoppers erupted for a season-high eight goals from six different players, including a hat trick from Bäckberg. 

Historically, West Liberty has controlled the series, winning six straight meetings against Salem dating back to 2018 and outscoring the Tigers 48–1 over the last five matchups.

Next up the Hilltoppers will visit Point Park, Wednesday. 

Match Information

Who: West Liberty (2–12, 1–10 MEC) at Salem (0–13)
When: Sunday, 3:30 p.m.
Where: Salem Soccer Field – Salem, W.Va.
Series History: WLU leads 6–1 (WLU has won six straight, including 8–0 on Sept. 28, 2025)