MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - West Virginia (8-2-2) secured their second straight victory with a 2-0 win over Arizona State (9-2-2) in a tightly contested NCAA women's soccer match on Sunday afternoon. The Mountaineers continued their strong home form, extending their winning streak to two games while handing the Sun Devils their second loss of the season.
The match saw both teams create opportunities throughout, with West Virginia's tactical discipline ultimately proving decisive. The Mountaineers controlled possession in key moments, while their defensive organization frustrated Arizona State's typically potent attack.
The first half featured an energetic start from both sides, with West Virginia's Maddie Levy testing the Sun Devils' defense with a blocked shot in the 8th minute. The Mountaineers continued to press forward, with Taylor White forcing a save in the 26th minute. Arizona State's defense, led by Addison Baltodano, worked diligently to maintain their shape, though they faced increasing pressure as the half progressed.
The second half saw West Virginia assert more control over the proceedings. Alicia Riggins created a dangerous opportunity in the 46th minute with a shot that sailed high. The Mountaineers' pressure intensified through their set pieces, earning four corners in quick succession between the 49th and 51st minutes. Maddie Levy nearly broke through in the 55th minute when her shot struck the woodwork, demonstrating West Virginia's growing offensive momentum.
The statistical advantage clearly favored the home side, as West Virginia outshot Arizona State 14-6, including a 4-1 advantage in shots on goal. The Mountaineers also held a slight edge in corner kicks, earning 10 to the Sun Devils' 9. Both teams maintained their discipline throughout, with neither side receiving any cautions.
Several players stood out with notable individual performances. West Virginia's Ava Arnold demonstrated her creative abilities with multiple threatening attempts, including a blocked shot in the 61st minute. For Arizona State, Grace Gillard showed defensive resilience and even managed to create an offensive threat with a shot in the 56th minute. Gositang Motshegwe provided a spark for the Sun Devils' attack, forcing a save with a well-struck effort in the 64th minute.
Tactically, West Virginia's approach focused on building through the midfield, utilizing quick transitions to create attacking opportunities. Their substitution pattern, including strategic changes like bringing on fresh attackers Sophia Nickel and Anna Hauer in the latter stages, helped maintain their offensive pressure. Arizona State attempted to counter through quick breaks but struggled to find consistent attacking rhythm against the organized Mountaineer defense.
This victory continues West Virginia's impressive form, following their recent 3-0 win over Arizona. For Arizona State, the loss marks a challenging period after their recent setback against UCF, though their overall season record remains strong at 9-2-2.
Looking ahead, both teams face quick turnarounds with conference matches. West Virginia will host Houston on October 10th, while Arizona State travels to face Colorado on the same evening. The Mountaineers will look to extend their winning streak, while the Sun Devils aim to bounce back from this setback.