BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — West Liberty University and Salem University battled to a 3-3 draw on Saturday at The Bridge. The Hilltoppers took an early lead with two first-half goals, but Salem responded with a late surge, netting two in the second half to equalize. West Liberty's goalkeeper recorded nine saves, including six in the second half, to preserve the tie.

The first half began with West Liberty taking an early lead as Oskar Voges found the back of the net in the 7th minute. The Hilltoppers maintained pressure, and Ethan Nethery extended the advantage to 2-0 in the 41st minute, with an assist from Leyton Collier. Salem responded quickly, narrowing the gap with a goal by Nicolas Del Gaudio in the 42nd minute. The half concluded with West Liberty holding a 2-1 lead.

The second half began with the Hilltoppers looking to build on the momentum from the first half. Salem struck early with a goal by CJ Branch at the 55:20 mark, leveling the score at 2-2. Henry then made crucial saves to keep the match tied, including three consecutive stops in the span of five minutes.

Salem briefly took the lead again with Ahmad Hajiz's goal in the 77th minute, assisted by Branch, pushing the score to 3-2 in favor of Salem. However, the Hilltoppers responded decisively as Barney Cowan, assisted by E.J. Sablan, found the back of the net in the 86th minute, equalizing the score at 3-3. Despite a late red card issued to Giancarlo Pardo from Salem, the half ended with the teams level, maintaining the 3-3 draw.

Henry recorded nine saves in goal for West Liberty, facing 21 shots and allowing three goals. Cowan and Voges each scored a goal, with Voges' effort also being the team's only unassisted goal. Nethery added to the score with a goal, converting both his shot attempts into shots on goal. Collier contributed with an assist, helping to facilitate one of the team's goals.

The next challenge for the Hilltoppers is a trip to Charleston, where they will face the Golden Eagles, Wednesday. The match is set to begin at 7 p.m.