WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's soccer team closes its home schedule Wednesday evening when the Hilltoppers welcome rival Wheeling University to the West Family Athletic Complex for Senior Night. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.

West Liberty enters the Mountain East Conference matchup at 6-6-3 overall and 4-6-2 in conference play. The Hilltoppers sit fourth in the North Division with 14 MEC points, one point ahead of fifth-place Wheeling, which enters at 6-8-1 overall and 4-7-1 in league action.

The Hilltoppers will look to bounce back after a 2-1 road loss to Point Park on Oct. 21. West Liberty previously defeated Wheeling, 2-1, on Sept. 13 at Bishop Schmitt Field in Wheeling.

Leyton Collier continues to pace the West Liberty offense. Collier has recorded three goals and three assists for nine points while leading the MEC with 37 shots and 21 shots on goal. His 2.85 shots per game also leads the conference.

Jasper Newton has added three goals and two assists for eight points, while Brian Russell has scored three goals. Barney Cowan and Alec Aceves have each contributed two goals.

West Liberty has scored 22 goals through 15 matches while allowing 17. The Hilltoppers have generated 180 shots, placing 90 on target, and average 1.47 goals per game.

In goal, Shai'ya Fitzgerald has provided a steady presence, recording 62 saves with a .805 save percentage and a 1.09 goals-against average.

Wheeling arrives on the Hill following a 2-0 victory over Point Park on Sunday, Oct. 25, snapping into the matchup with a one-game winning streak.

The Cardinals have scored 25 goals and allowed 25 through 15 matches, averaging 1.67 goals per game. Jon-Michael Gordan leads Wheeling with six goals and one assist, while Luis Yanes has added five goals. Elie Simon and Reilly Nickles have each scored three times.

Wheeling has recorded 184 shots, with 88 on goal, and has earned 68 corner kicks. The Cardinals have also collected 78 saves this season.

The first meeting between the rivals was decided by one goal. West Liberty earned a 2-1 victory in September, and the Hilltoppers will look to complete the season sweep while protecting home turf in their final home appearance of the regular season.

The Hilltoppers and Cardinals meet Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the West Family Athletic Complex.





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.