Embry‑Riddle’s women’s soccer squad opened its 2026 campaign with a commanding 3–1 victory on the road against Cumberland, a performance that set the tone for a season many expect to be competitive.
From the opening whistle the Eagles pressed forward, outshooting their opponents 33–15 and dictating possession for the majority of the match.
Early Lead and Response
The breakthrough came just 74 seconds in, when defender Natalia Sepulveda found the net, giving ERAU an immediate lead.
Cumberland answered in the 10th minute, leveling the score for a brief moment, but the Eagles responded with composure, maintaining pressure and creating numerous chances.
Midfielders Tessa Updegraff, Young and Newlin orchestrated the tempo, distributing the ball with precision while forwards Jamie Brandon, Tessa Updegraff and Leah Barone generated a steady stream of shot attempts.
Defensively, the back line of Sepulveda, Forrester, Carnahan and Kishida limited Cumberland to only three shots in the second half, allowing goalkeeper Maile Kahele to make three crucial saves and organize the defense during late surges.
The match was not decided until the 87th minute, when Kaylie Speer struck the winning goal, sealing a 3–1 result that underscored the team’s resilience, and the Eagles will next host Oregon Tech in Prescott on Sunday at 5 p.m. at Varsity Field.