The West Virginia University women's soccer squad snapped a nine‑year winless stretch against Penn State on Thursday, edging the Nittany Lions 2‑1 in a match that felt more like a statement than a routine victory.
Penn State drew first blood in the opening eleven minutes when forward Anna Babcock slipped a shot past Mountaineer keeper Bailey Herfurth, putting the visitors ahead early and testing WVU's resolve.
The Mountaineers answered back before halftime, as Olivia Shertzer unleashed a deep strike that found the net in the 34th minute, leveling the score and shifting momentum.
A Coach's Vision
Sophomore Sophia Nickel added the decisive goal in the 68th minute, capping an 11‑7 outshot advantage for West Virginia and sealing the comeback.
Coach Nikki Izzo‑Brown praised the team's fearless mindset, noting that the players have been eager to rewrite the narrative that has kept them stuck in the third round of the NCAA tournament since 2019. 'We’re playing with confidence and we’re not afraid to take the risks that can change history,' she said after the final whistle.
The win not only lifts the Mountaineers' spirits but also sets up a much‑anticipated showdown with Duquesne on Sunday, August 23 at 1 p.m., a game that could further test their newly forged momentum.