WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's soccer team returns to the West Family Athletic Complex Wednesday night to host Frostburg State in a Mountain East Conference matchup featuring two teams ranked in the latest United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II Atlantic Region poll. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

The Hilltoppers enter the matchup ranked No. 10 in the Atlantic Region after improving to 6-5-1 overall and 4-5 in conference play with a dominant 6-0 road victory over West Virginia Wesleyan on Sunday. Frostburg State is ranked No. 7 in the region and comes to West Liberty with a 6-2-4 overall record and a 4-2-2 mark in the MEC after defeating Shawnee State 4-2 on Sunday.

West Liberty will look to carry the momentum from its six-goal performance into Wednesday's contest. The Hilltoppers scored three times in each half against West Virginia Wesleyan, with six different goals helping secure the shutout victory.

Sophomore forward Leyton Collier continues to lead the Hilltoppers' attack, recording three goals and three assists for nine points through 10 appearances. Collier has taken 31 shots, including 18 on goal, ranking among the conference leaders in both categories. Brian Russell has also provided a scoring threat with three goals, while Jasper Newton, Barney Cowan and Alec Aceves have contributed to the Hilltoppers' offensive production.

Defensively, goalkeeper Shai'ya Fitzgerald has been a key presence for West Liberty, recording 47 saves and two shutouts. The Hilltoppers have scored 20 goals this season while allowing 14, and will look to maintain their defensive discipline against a productive Frostburg State attack.

The Bobcats have scored 23 goals through 12 matches, averaging 1.92 per game, while allowing just 12. Frank Stare leads Frostburg State with seven goals and four assists for 18 points. Inzaghi Harmon has added three goals and four assists, giving the Bobcats multiple options in the attacking third.

Frostburg State also has been strong in goal, with Josiah Emerson posting a 0.94 goals-against average and three shutouts in nine appearances.

The Bobcats claimed the first meeting between the teams this season, earning a 3-0 victory Sept. 16 in Frostburg, Maryland. The Hilltoppers will look to reverse that result on their home field as they continue their push through the Mountain East Conference schedule.

Following Wednesday's matchup, West Liberty heads back on the road Sunday to face Davis & Elkins at 4 p.m. in Elkins, West Virginia.


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.