PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The West Liberty University men's soccer team outshot Point Park, 19-8, but came up short in a 2-1 loss Wednesday at F.N.B. Stadium.
The Hilltoppers fell to 6-6-3 overall and 4-6-2 in Mountain East Conference play, while Point Park improved to 6-6-3 overall and 5-5-1 in the MEC.
Point Park built a 2-0 lead in the first half before West Liberty answered in the 31st minute.
Jasper Newton found the back of the net off an assist from
Kevin Teather, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The Hilltoppers continued to pressure the Pioneers before halftime but were unable to find the equalizer.
West Liberty carried that momentum into the second half, outshooting Point Park by a wide margin while searching for a tying goal. The Hilltoppers recorded 10 shots after the break and limited the Pioneers to just one attempt, but Point Park goalkeeper Anthony Fusay made key stops to preserve the lead.
West Liberty finished with eight shots on goal, while Point Park put four of its eight attempts on frame. Fusay recorded seven saves for the Pioneers, while Hilltopper goalkeeper
Shai'ya Fitzgerald made three saves over 90 minutes.
Newton led the Hilltoppers' scoring effort with his goal, finishing with two shots. Teather added an assist and three shots, while
Leyton Collier paced the attack with five attempts. West Liberty continued to create opportunities late in the match but could not find another breakthrough as Point Park held on for the 2-1 victory.
The Hilltoppers will close out the regular season next Wednesday, Oct. 28, when they host Wheeling at the West Family Athletic Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 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.
