Key storylines ahead of the WKU‑UAB clash
The Hilltoppers are set to welcome the University of Alabama at Birmingham on Thursday, August 20, at 7 p.m., with free admission for fans at the WKU Soccer Complex in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The match marks the 12th meeting between the programs, a series that stands at a balanced 5‑5‑1 in favor of WKU.
Both squads arrive with recent accolades that underscore the stakes. Goalkeeper Mia Riddick earned Conference USA Goalkeeper of the Week after posting two clean sheets and eight saves, while forward Makenna Egan was named Offensive Player of the Week following her decisive goal against Indiana State.
The team’s momentum dates back to the season opener, a 0‑0 draw with Missouri, and a 4‑1 exhibition win over Samford Racers. A shutout against Missouri highlighted Riddick’s six‑save performance, and the Hilltoppers finished last season with a 9‑5‑3 record, capturing the C‑USA regular‑season title.
Defensively, WKU has been relentless, allowing just 0.86 goals per game a year ago, the second‑best mark in the league. Head coach Jason Neidell, now in his 26th year, was recognized as C‑USA Coach of the Year, underscoring the program’s stability.
Adding to the excitement, the roster returns key contributors such as Georgia Liapis, the 2024 C‑USA Midfielder of the Year, and Egan, the Freshman of the Year, alongside All‑C‑USA first‑team member Abby Wiedermann.
Historically, the Hilltoppers hold a 5‑5‑1 edge over UAB in 12 meetings, and they boast a 3‑1 record in home encounters at the complex, giving the home crowd a psychological boost.
UAB, meanwhile, opens the season with a 1‑1‑0 slate, having fallen 2‑1 to Mississippi State before a 4‑2 victory over Georgia State, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.
Fans can expect a lively atmosphere as the Hilltoppers look to translate their defensive solidity and award‑winning talent into another win, while the Blazers aim to upset the home side.