WKU had seven shots in the game including three shots on goal. Georgia Liapis led the team with three shots on the day.
HOW IT HAPPENED
WKU gained early possession to start the match, holding strong on the defensive end until Ohio broke the tie at the 28 minute mark, to take a 1-0 lead.
The Tops managed to get off four shots in the first 45, with Georgia Liapis and Danielle Lewin recording two apiece. Lewin had the lone shot on goal for WKU in the first half. Kendal Mix had two saves with one goal allowed in the half.
In the second half Mia Riddick started in goal for the Tops. Torrie Grant-Clavijo got the first shot of the second half off in the 60th minute. Rebecca Roth would get one off four minutes later. Ohio then took a two-goal lead in the 73rd minute, putting the game out of reach.
NOTABLES
- Three freshmen were in the starting 11 for WKU on Thursday, including Kendall Mix in goal. Mix played 45 minutes and charted two saves with one goal allowed.
- Mia Riddick played the second half in goal for WKU. Riddick managed three saves with one goal allowed.
- Georgia Liapis led the team with three shots in 84 minutes of playing time.
- Danielle Lewin added two shots in 41 minutes including one shot on goal.
- Torrie Grant-Clavijo and Rebecca Roth each added one shot, with both being on target.
- WKU finished the day with seven shots, three on goal.
- The duo of Mix and Riddick charted five total saves Thursday afternoon.
QUOTABLE
On the team performance, head coach Jason Neidell said "We started the season off with a really good Ohio team who has been top of their conference the last few years. We were really good in short stretches of the game, but we did not have enough overall quality in our build to take advantage of moments in the game to capitalize."
"We will learn from this game, move forward, and get ready for the next one on Saturday," Neidell added.
NEXT UP
The Hilltoppers continue the Ohio road trip with a match against Rio Grande on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 4 p.m. CT.
Follow the Hilltoppers: For complete information on WKU Soccer, visit WKUSports.com or follow the program via social media @WKU_Soccer on X and Instagram and @WKUSoccer on Facebook.
