CANTON, Ohio — West Liberty University women's soccer will look to earn its first victory of the 2026 season Wednesday when the Hilltoppers travel to Malone University for a 6 p.m. non-conference matchup at Pioneer Park.

West Liberty enters the contest at 0-1-0 after dropping a tightly contested 1-0 decision at D'Youville on Aug. 27. The Hilltoppers created several opportunities throughout the match but were unable to find the equalizer after the Spartans scored in the sixth minute. West Liberty recorded multiple corner kicks and shots in the contest, while goalkeeper Kaisa Vale kept the Hilltoppers within striking distance with five saves on 12 D'Youville shots.

Frida Lundberg and Ariana Bosh each registered a shot on goal against D'Youville, while Kylie Collins also put a shot on target. The Hilltoppers continued to pressure the Spartans throughout the second half but were unable to break through D'Youville's defense.

Wednesday's matchup will be the first meeting between West Liberty and Malone since Aug. 31, 2023. The Pioneers own a 3-0 advantage in the all-time series, including a 3-2 victory in the most recent meeting in Canton. Malone also posted a 1-0 victory at West Liberty in 2019 and a 3-1 win in Canton in 2018.

The Hilltoppers will look to turn their strong offensive pressure from the season opener into goals Wednesday while continuing to build on a defensive effort that limited D'Youville to a single goal.

NEXT UP: West Liberty will open Mountain East Conference play Sunday, Sept. 6, at Fairmont State. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Duvall-Rosier Field. The Hilltoppers will then make their 2026 home debut Wednesday, Sept. 9, against Point Park 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.