WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The No. 10 West Liberty University men's soccer team battled No. 7 Frostburg State to a 1-1 draw Wednesday at the West Family Athletic Complex in a matchup between two United Soccer Coaches Atlantic Region-ranked teams.

The Hilltoppers (6-5-2, 4-5-1 MEC) struck early, taking a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute when Ethan Nethery converted a pass from Kevin Teather at 4:11. Frostburg State (6-2-5, 4-2-3 MEC) answered in the 29th minute, with Christ Fopossi finding the net at 28:42 to even the score at 1-1.

West Liberty goalkeeper Shai'ya Fitzgerald made two important saves in the first half, including stops at 32:20 and 42:48, to help keep the match level heading into halftime.

The Hilltoppers applied pressure after the break, outshooting Frostburg State 5-1 in the second half. Between the 59th and 65th minutes, Leyton Collier, Jasper Newton and Brian Russell each attempted shots, with Newton's effort saved by Frostburg State goalkeeper Josiah Emerson. West Liberty continued to push late, as Brody Wall attempted a shot in the 81st minute before a corner kick in the 88th minute and a Julius Aschmann shot in the 90th minute. Neither team found a go-ahead goal, and the match ended in a draw.

West Liberty finished with an 8-6 advantage in shots, while both teams recorded three shots on goal. Aschmann led the Hilltoppers with three attempts, while Nethery scored on his only shot on goal. Fitzgerald played all 90 minutes and made two saves.

The Hilltoppers return to the road Sunday for a Mountain East Conference matchup at Davis & Elkins. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.