CANYON, Texas – The Hilltoppers of St. Edward's withstood a late push by the West Texas A&M Lady Buffs to claim a 3-2 Lone Star Conference victory at The Pitch in Canyon on Saturday afternoon.
The first half began with WT showing offensive intent, as
Aaliyah McPeak and
Mollie Ferro each attempted early shots, though they missed their targets.
Franciezca Blancaflor provided a crucial save against Annie Rocha in the 11th minute, keeping the game level until St. Edward's broke through in the 28th minute with Rocha scoring to put the visitors ahead. Despite several corner opportunities and shots by
Alicia Cohen, the Lady Buffs couldn't find the net, and St. Edward's extended their lead with a second goal in the 39th minute, ending the half with a 2-0 advantage.
The second half began with Cohen testing the St. Edward's goalkeeper early at the 49th minute. Despite conceding a goal shortly after, the Lady Buffs responded with determination.
Yamilet Ruiz netted a goal in the 58th minute, narrowing the deficit to 3-1, and just over ten minutes later,
Jezmin Castellanos Reyes added another goal to bring the Lady Buffs within striking distance. Despite further efforts, WT was unable to find an equalizer, concluding the half with a 3-2 scoreline in favor of St. Edward's.
Cohen posted four shots with one on goal for the Lady Buffs. Castellanos Reyes scored once on her single shot. Ruiz also found the back of the net with a shot on goal. In goal, Blancaflor recorded one save while allowing two goals in her 45 minutes of play.
St. Edward's standout players included Rocha, who scored two goals on seven shots, leading the team in both categories and securing the game-winning goal. Katie Fitzpatrick contributed with a goal from her only shot on target. Jisell Zavaleta Denova added an assist, enhancing the offensive play. Additionally, Marie Hannedouche provided an assist, contributing to the team's attacking efforts. In goal, Daria Schlumbohm recorded two saves, playing a crucial role in maintaining the team's defensive stability.
The Lady Buffs return to The Pitch next Saturday as they welcome the Lobos of Sul Ross State to Canyon with kickoff set for 1:00 p.m.
