MIDWAY, Ky. — The Midway University women's soccer team saw its two-match unbeaten streak come to an end Thursday afternoon, falling 3-0 to West Virginia University Institute of Technology in River States Conference action at Midway Turf Field.
The Golden Bears scored just 74 seconds into the contest before adding two goals in the opening four minutes of the second half to secure the victory.
With the loss, Midway falls to 3-9-2 overall, while WVU Tech improves to 10-5-1 overall and 6-1-0 in conference play.
The afternoon also featured Senior Day festivities, with Midway recognizing six members of its women's soccer program for their contributions on and off the field.
First Half
WVU Tech wasted little time finding the back of the net, taking a 1-0 lead just 1:14 into the contest.
Maria Rodriguez opened the scoring for the Golden Bears, putting Midway in an early deficit.
The visitors continued applying pressure throughout the opening half, forcing Midway goalkeeper Lilly Riordan into several saves.
In the eighth minute, Riordan turned away an attempt from Julia Silva before the Golden Bears nearly doubled their advantage in the 15th minute when Marcela Kalb struck the crossbar.
Just seconds later, Riordan denied another attempt from Silva to keep the Eagles within one.
WVU Tech continued generating opportunities, with Kalb striking the crossbar for a second time in the 26th minute.
Despite facing consistent pressure, Riordan recorded five saves in the opening half to keep Midway within striking distance.
The Golden Bears entered halftime holding a 1-0 advantage after outshooting the Eagles 12-0 and recording three corner kicks.
Second Half
WVU Tech came out of the halftime break quickly, doubling its advantage just 42 seconds into the second half.
Silva scored at the 45:42 mark, with Rodriguez recording the assist to give the Golden Bears a 2-0 lead.
Less than three minutes later, WVU Tech extended its advantage when Rocio Gutierrez found the back of the net at the 48:23 mark off an assist from Kalb.
Trailing 3-0, Midway continued battling defensively as the Golden Bears looked to add to their lead.
Riordan made four additional saves in the second half, finishing the afternoon with nine saves.
The Eagles generated their lone offensive opportunity of the contest in the second half when sophomore Sloane Pollock recorded a shot on goal.
However, WVU Tech goalkeeper Irene Saldana made the save to preserve the shutout as the Golden Bears secured the 3-0 victory.
Inside the Box Score
WVU Tech finished the afternoon with 23 shots, including 12 on goal, while Midway recorded one shot, which came from Pollock.
Riordan played all 90 minutes in goal for the Eagles, recording nine saves while allowing three goals.
Silva led the Golden Bears with eight shots, including five on goal, while Rodriguez, Silva and Gutierrez each recorded a goal.
Rodriguez and Kalb also contributed an assist apiece.
The Golden Bears held a 4-0 advantage in corner kicks, while Midway committed 11 fouls compared to WVU Tech's three.
Saldana recorded one save in goal for WVU Tech to earn the shutout.
Senior Day Recognition
Prior to Thursday's contest, Midway University recognized six members of its women's soccer program as part of Senior Day festivities at Midway Turf Field.
The Eagles honored Guadalupe Torres, Belle Dotson, Autumn Logan, Rebekah Phelps, Chloe Kemper and Courtney Milner.
The group has represented Midway throughout its time with the program, contributing both on the field and in the classroom while helping the Eagles compete in the River States Conference.
Thursday's ceremony provided an opportunity to recognize the seniors for their dedication, leadership and contributions to Midway University as they approach the conclusion of their collegiate careers.
Looking Ahead
Midway will conclude its 2026 regular season on Saturday, October 31, when the Eagles welcome the University of Rio Grande to Midway Turf Field.
The Eagles will look to bounce back in their final regular-season contest after Thursday's defeat.
About Midway University Athletics
Midway University competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and its 29 athletics teams are part of the River States Conference, Mid-South Conference, the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association, and USA Archery. For more information about Midway University Athletics, please visit www.gomidwayeagles.com or contact Tyler Beck at 859-846-5366.
