The West Virginia Mountaineers defeated Arizona State on October 5, keeping their non-losing streak alive. Maddie Levy and Sophia Nickel scored goals to propel WVU to victory at Dick Dlesk Soccer Stadium on Sunday. Read more: WVU Women’s Soccer Extends Non-losing Streak With 2-0 Win Over ASU
Preface
WVU has been on a tear since losing to Penn State earlier this season. The Mountaineers have won or settled for a draw in every match since August 24.
Sunday’s win over Arizona State kept the Mountaineers unbeaten against the Sun Devils, with WVU leading the all-time series 2-0. WVU first defeated ASU in 2024.
First Half
West Virginia dominated the first half, outshooting Arizona State 6-0 in the period. Neither goalkeeper tallied a save in the period, either.
The Mountaineers had four corner kick opportunities, compared to two for the Sun Devils before halftime. ASU had little to no momentum throughout the match, but this was especially the case in the first half.
WVU midfielder Maddie Levy found the back of the net for the second consecutive match, breaking the 0-0 tie. The goal in the 27th minute was a team effort, as Levy was assisted by Anna Hauer and Ajanae Respass.
Levy’s goal was her fifth of the season. Both Hauer and Respass collected their third respective assists on the play. Levy is second on the team in goals scored this season, trailing Taylor White (6).
Related: EDITORIAL: Progress in Provo
Second Half
The second half featured more action from both sides, but WVU goalkeeper Bailey Herfurth was able to solidify another clean sheet. The Mountaineers’ defense produced a collaborative effort to earn back-to-back shutouts.
ASU finished with six shots in the match, all coming in the second half. Only one was listed on goal, however.
As the match entered the waning minutes, Sophia Nickel subbed in for the Mountaineers. Nickel made an instant impact by scoring in the 89th minute. The unassisted tally was the Colorado native’s first of the season.
WVU wrapped up a 2-0 win over ASU by outplaying the Sun Devils on practically every front.
Final Wrap
Fouls and the lack of offense were the main culprits regarding the Sun Devils’ downfall in the Sunday Matinee. Arizona State racked up four fouls, compared to 0 against West Virginia.
WVU goalkeeper Bailey Herfurth only had to make two saves on Sunday, leaving minimal room for ASU to capitalize.
With the win, WVU moves to 3-0-2 in Big 12 action and now has eight outright victories in 2025. The Mountaineers will return to action on October 10, continuing their homestand with a match against Houston. Kickoff is slated for 7 P.M. and will be available on ESPN+.
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