A Dominant Home Opener
Central Michigan Women's Soccer opened its season with a commanding 6‑1 victory over Purdue Fort Wayne, turning a 1‑2 road start into a confident home win.
The Chippewas built early pressure, striking twice in the first half as Claire Bergsma notched her first collegiate goal and added an assist, while Ella Betzold capped the half with a decisive strike.
The second half saw Naomi Phillips head in a goal set up by Melania Troy, and Jordan Bailey unleash a powerful shot from the penalty box, extending the lead before Kylee Weed finished the scoring with a clever pop pass.
Purdue Fort Wayne managed a consolation goal in the latter period, but the Chippewas never looked back, preserving a clean sheet aside from the single marker.
The win also marked a milestone in roster transition, with 14 newcomers joining 13 returning players, underscoring the team’s fresh depth as it settles back in Mount Pleasant.
A crowd of over 200 fans filled the CMU Soccer/Lacrosse Complex, creating a lively atmosphere that head coach James DeCosemo praised, noting the importance of a homecoming victory as the team prepares for a three‑game homestand, beginning with a matchup against Cincinnati on Sept. 3 at 7 p.m.