WHEELING, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's soccer team will put its perfect start to the 2026 season on the line Sunday when the Hilltoppers make the short trip to Wheeling University for a 7 p.m. Mountain East Conference matchup at Bishop Schmitt Field.

West Liberty enters the contest at 3-0 overall and 1-0 in MEC play following Wednesday night's 3-2 victory against Point Park. The Hilltoppers also opened the season with road wins at Daemen and Chestnut Hill.

The Hilltoppers have been one of the conference's top offensive teams through the opening three matches, ranking second in the MEC with eight goals and 18 shots per game. West Liberty has put 26 of its 54 shots on goal while allowing just four goals.

Sophomore forward Leyton Collier has led the attack with three goals and an assist, ranking among the conference leaders in goals, shots and points. Brian Russell has added two goals, while Jasper Newton, Alec Aceves and Wilson Hanna have each scored once. Tresz McLeod has contributed a pair of assists.

Collier has been particularly active, leading the MEC with 14 shots through three matches while putting seven on target.

West Liberty has also received steady play in goal from junior Shai'ya Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald has started all three matches and owns a 1.33 goals-against average with 14 saves (second in the MEC) and a .778 save percentage.  

Wheeling enters Sunday's matchup at 1-3 overall and 0-2 in conference play. The Cardinals opened the season with a 2-1 loss at California (Pa.), defeated Walsh 3-1 at home, and then dropped consecutive MEC matches to Point Park, 2-1, and Frostburg State, 3-1.

Despite the early record, Wheeling has generated plenty of offensive opportunities, averaging 12.8 shots per game. Jon-Michael Gordan leads the Cardinals with two goals, while Enzo Boulaoued has recorded two assists. KJ Viglundsson and Luis Yanes have also found the net.

The Cardinals have scored six goals through four matches and are averaging 1.5 goals per game, but have allowed eight.

Sunday's matchup will be the first of two meetings between the teams this season. West Liberty will host Wheeling on Oct. 28 in the regular-season finale.

The Hilltoppers will remain on the road following Sunday's match, traveling to Frostburg State Wednesday for a 7 p.m. MEC matchup.




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.