Institute, W.Va. – The University of Charleston hit the road for a short trip to Institute to face the Mountain East Conference regular-season champions, West Virginia State, in their final test before the postseason.
The Basics
- Location: Lakin-Ray Field at Dickerson Stadium
- Final Score: UC 1, WVSU 2
- Records: Charleston (8-7-3, 7-5-3 MEC), West Virginia State (14-3-1, 14-1-1 MEC)
How It Happened
Earlier this season, the Yellow Jackets claimed a 2-0 win over the Golden Eagles at the Welch Athletic Complex. This time, UC came out determined to return the favor.
Charleston started strong, applying heavy pressure from the opening whistle. Just five minutes in, Mya Mills made a dangerous run down the right flank, forcing the WVSU defense to scramble. Their clearance fell to Allison Freese, whose long-range cross deflected off a Yellow Jacket defender and into the net for an early UC lead. The Golden Eagles continued to push forward. In the 20th minute, Alison Rothmann forced the WVSU keeper into a sharp save with a powerful free kick from distance. On the ensuing corner, another deflection nearly resulted in a second own goal.
However, the Yellow Jackets showed their championship composure. A through ball behind the UC defense leveled the match, and just three minutes later, a penalty kick put WVSU ahead 2-1.
The second half turned into a tight midfield battle, with both teams defending well and limiting clear chances. In the 72nd minute, Ines Degli Esposti came up big for Charleston, making a brilliant 1v1 save to keep the game within reach. Despite their efforts, the Golden Eagles couldn't find an equalizer, and the match ended 2-1 in favor of West Virginia State.
Charleston closes out the regular season with an 8-7-3 overall record and a 7-5-3 mark in MEC play, securing third place in the South Division.
Up Next
The Golden Eagles turn their attention to the postseason, opening the MEC Tournament on November 9 at 1 p.m., when they'll travel to face Frostburg State University.
