CALIFORNIA, Pa. — West Liberty University secured a 2-0 victory over California University of Pennsylvania on Saturday at Phillipsburg Soccer Facility. The game remained scoreless until the second half when West Liberty scored twice to clinch the win. The defense was pivotal, with the West Liberty goalkeeper making six saves to maintain the shutout.
The first half between West Liberty and California was marked by strong defensive performances, particularly from West Liberty's goalkeeper,
Emil Vernhamn. Vernhamn made crucial saves early, denying shots from Malachi Herndon and Brady Olsen in the first four minutes. The Vulcans maintained offensive pressure with multiple corner kicks but could not find the back of the net. West Liberty's offense attempted to break through with shots from
Oskar Voges and
Travis Scandalis, but were thwarted by California's goalkeeper, AJ Visco. The half concluded with both teams locked in a scoreless draw, despite several attempts on goal.
West Liberty and California began the second half with a strong defensive presence, with West Liberty's
Ethan Nethery taking an early shot at the 47:03 mark. The Hilltoppers maintained offensive pressure, earning multiple corner kicks and testing California's defense with several shots, including one by
Barney Cowan at 62:01 that was saved by AJ Visco. The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when Scandalis scored, assisted by
Jasper Newton, putting the Hilltoppers ahead. Just minutes later,
Alex Watt extended the lead to 2-0 with a goal assisted by
Lachlan Quate at 83:41. Despite California's attempts, including a saved shot from Jaime Marcelo Espinosa, the Hilltoppers' defense held firm to secure the victory.
Vernhamn recorded six saves, securing a shutout for the Hilltoppers. Watt scored the team's second goal, converting his only shot on target. Scandalis netted the game-winning goal, with both of his shots being on target. Quate contributed to the team's effort with an assist.
Looking ahead, the Hilltoppers head to Frostburg, Md. Wednesday, to face Frostburg State. The match is set for 7 p.m. .
