BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — West Liberty broke open a scoreless match with three second-half goals Wednesday, blanking Salem 3-0 in a Mountain East Conference men's soccer matchup.
The victory moved the Hilltoppers to 5-4 overall and 3-4 in MEC play, while Salem fell to 2-6-2 overall and 0-5-1 in conference play.
After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, West Liberty found the breakthrough just 2:02 into the second half.
Zachary Jordan scored at the 47:02 mark off an assist from
Leyton Collier to put the Hilltoppers in front, 1-0.
West Liberty continued to pressure the Salem defense, with E.J. Sablan,
Julius Aschmann and Collier each putting shots on goal that were turned aside by Salem goalkeeper Gregory Lynch.
The Hilltoppers doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute when
Omar Cortez scored at 72:09 off an assist from
Wilson Hanna.
Martin Medancic capped the scoring at 87:47, adding an unassisted goal to give West Liberty a three-goal advantage.
West Liberty finished with an 11-8 edge in shots and put seven attempts on frame compared to two for Salem. The Hilltoppers also earned eight corner kicks while Salem had three.
Shai'ya Fitzgerald played all 90 minutes in goal for West Liberty, making two saves to record the shutout.
The Hilltoppers controlled the match despite a scoreless first half. Fitzgerald made two saves during the opening 45 minutes, including stops on Tommy Sowinski and Josue Villegas. Salem also had a shot hit the woodwork during its first-half pressure.
West Liberty generated several chances of its own before halftime, with Collier putting an early shot on goal and the Hilltoppers earning multiple corner kicks.
Brian Russell also tested the Salem defense with a shot that went wide in the 36th minute.
The Hilltoppers return to action Saturday when they visit Seton Hill for a non-conference matchup at noon in Greensburg, Pa.
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.
