West Liberty, W. Va. – The Wheeling University Women's Soccer team (3-4, 2-3) dropped their road conference match to West Liberty on Wednesday night 2-0 The Hilltoppers scored an early go right from the get-go, and the Cardinals were never able to respond.

That early goal came just 33 seconds into the match as West Liberty's Kaelyn Oskin took a pass from Alyssa Rhinaman to take a 1-0 lead. Even though they were down, Wheeling had come off of two thrilling come from behind victory, so their confidence was not shaken. However, the offensive opportunities just weren't there as Wheeling got off just three shots in the half. The defense played well, not allowing another goal over the final 44:27 of the first half and the teams went to halftime with the score sitting at 1-0.

Wheeling was outshot 5-3 in that first half, and goalkeeper Mikayla Yarwood kept West Liberty off the board aside from the one goal. She made two saves in that first half and was a big part of keeping her team within striking distance. The Cardinals showed that they could hold the Hilltoppers at bay, but we're just looking for their opportunity to strike in the second half.

However, it would be West Liberty that would get that first offensive opportunity in the second half, getting back on the board in the 53^rd minute. Oskin was back at it again, this time taking the pass from Isabella Aperfine, getting the ball past Yarwood to give the Hilltoppers a 2-0 lead. Wheeling continued to fight back throughout the second half, but it wasn't enough as they couldn't get on the board and fell 2-0 after being outshot 4-2 in the second half.

In the game, Wheeling was outshot by West Liberty 9-5 and was efficient with their shooting putting three of those shots on goal. Senior Braedynn Porter led the way taking three shots on the day while putting two of those shots on goal. Skylar Coogle added a shot on goal, and Talynn DeBartolo added a shot on the day. Yarwood allowed the two goals on the day and made five saves as she played all 90 minutes in net for Wheeling.

The Wheeling University Women's Soccer team returns to action on Sunday when they take on Alderson Broaddus at Bishop Schmitt Field with kick-off at 1 PM.