A Competitive Start
Emporia State kicked off the 2026 season on August 29 with a thrilling 3‑2 victory over the 21st‑ranked Maryville team at the ESU Pitch, a venue that would prove pivotal for the Hornets' early momentum.
Maryville struck first in the 27th minute, capitalizing on a play that involved Kelsey Wentland, but the Hornets answered swiftly in the 30th minute when Ava Huston converted a free‑kick into an equalizer, marking her first career goal.
The first half saw Maryville dominate early shots, registering three on target compared to just one from Emporia State, yet the Hornets' defense held firm under the steady hand of goalkeeper Terra Rybuck, who made eight saves to keep the lead within reach.
The second half unfolded with Megan Kephart delivering the decisive strike in the 63rd minute from the edge of the box, followed by Dahlia Placino’s towering header in the 75th minute that doubled the lead to 3‑1.
Maryville managed to pull one back, narrowing the margin to 3‑2, but Rybuck’s final saves preserved the win, allowing the Hornets to celebrate a hard‑earned triumph.
Key performances highlighted the match: Kephart’s consistency, having scored in both of Emporia State’s opening games, and the debut goals of Huston and Ruby Ryan, who capped the victory with the winning strike.
Looking Ahead
The Hornets will next test themselves against Augustana (SD) on September 2 at 4:00 p.m. at the same venue, a match that promises to build on the early chemistry displayed against Maryville.