LAWRENCE, Kan. - TCU (9-1-0) defeated Kansas (7-2-2) 3-2 on Sunday afternoon in front of 928 fans at Rock Chalk Park, extending their winning streak to five matches while handing the Jayhawks their second straight loss.
The scoring opened early as Lexi Watts tested TCU's defense with a low shot in the 21st minute, followed by multiple threatening attempts from both sides. The first half saw intense back-and-forth action, with Kansas's Kate Langfelder and TCU's Cameron Patton trading dangerous opportunities. Lainey Swanson received a yellow card in the 44th minute for unsporting behavior, adding tension to an already competitive first period.
Kansas dominated the first-half shot count, recording eight attempts to TCU's three. The Jayhawks' pressure was evident through their aggressive offensive approach, with Livvy Moore and Saige Wimes creating multiple chances. TCU's defense, anchored by Filippa Hoegild, weathered the early storm despite conceding four corner kicks in the opening 45 minutes.
The second half saw TCU emerge with renewed energy. Sydney Becerra threatened with a low shot in the 48th minute, signaling the Horned Frogs' increased offensive intent. Emma Yolinsky and Grace Vest both recorded shots on target as TCU began to control more possession. A crucial tactical shift came in the 61st minute when both teams made multiple substitutions, with TCU bringing fresh legs to their attacking line.
Final statistics reflected the match's competitive nature, with Kansas recording 19 total shots to TCU's 12. The Jayhawks put eight shots on target compared to TCU's seven, while earning four corners to TCU's one. The disciplinary count saw TCU receive two yellow cards (Swanson, Fuller) while Kansas received one.
Individual performances highlighted the evening, with Lexi Watts leading Kansas's attack with five shot attempts. TCU's Cameron Patton proved dangerous with three shots, while Sydney Becerra's second-half performance helped shift momentum in TCU's favor. Defensive standout Kaela Martinez made several crucial interventions before being substituted in the 79th minute.
Tactically, Kansas's early high-pressing approach created numerous first-half opportunities, particularly through the wings where Watts and Moore found space to operate. TCU's adjustment after halftime to a more possession-based style, coupled with strategic substitutions, helped them gain control of the midfield and create more structured attacking sequences.
The result maintains TCU's impressive form, having won five straight matches and improving their conference record to 3-0-0. For Kansas, the loss marks their second consecutive defeat after falling to Baylor earlier in the week, though their overall record remains strong at 7-2-2.
Looking ahead, both teams face quick turnarounds with conference matches this week. TCU returns home to host Colorado on October 2nd at 8:00 PM, while Kansas looks to rebound against Kansas State on October 2nd at 7:00 PM. The Horned Frogs' victory solidifies their position as one of the Big 12's top teams, while Kansas will aim to halt their losing streak against their in-state rivals.