WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty battled through a scoreless first half Sunday, but Davis & Elkins scored twice after the break to hand the Hilltoppers a 2-0 setback in Mountain East Conference women's soccer action at the West Family Athletic Complex.
The Hilltoppers were limited to four shots on the afternoon, including one on goal, while Davis & Elkins finished with a 9-4 advantage in shots and put eight attempts on frame.
Kaisa Vale kept West Liberty within striking distance throughout the match, making six saves over 90 minutes. Five of those saves came in the second half as the Senators applied consistent pressure.
West Liberty's defense held Davis & Elkins off the scoreboard throughout the opening 45 minutes. Vale made a save on a late Senators' attempt at 42:39, while Ariana Bosh recorded the Hilltoppers' lone shot of the half, sending her attempt over the crossbar in the 41st minute.
The match remained scoreless at halftime, but Davis & Elkins broke through just 53 seconds into the second half when Taytum Walls found the net at 45:53.
The Senators added a second goal from Sophia Brown at 66:13 to extend the lead to 2-0.
Vale continued to keep the Hilltoppers in the match, making five second-half saves, including three after the 75th minute. West Liberty also withstood a sustained Davis & Elkins push from 75:59 to 83:53 that included three shots and two corner kicks without allowing another goal.
Emma Lieu gave the Hilltoppers their best opportunity to get on the board late, putting West Liberty's final shot on goal at 89:09. Davis & Elkins goalkeeper Gabriela Acevedo made the save to preserve the shutout.
Lieu finished with one shot and one shot on goal, while Bosh,
Frida Lundberg and
Kylie Collins also recorded attempts.
West Liberty returns to action Wednesday, traveling to Charleston for a 7 p.m. MEC matchup at Welch 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.
