WEST CHESTER, Pa. — Fairmont State University defeated Kutztown University 2-1 in the first round of NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Championship on Friday. The win for the Falcons is the first NCAA Championship win in program history.
The first half began with Fairmont State quickly responding after Kutztown took an early lead. Skyler Jordan opened the scoring for the Golden Bears in the ninth minute with an assist from Maura Day. The Falcons capitalized on a corner kick in the 24th minute when
Filippa Stalhammar scored, assisted by
Montserrat Diaz, leveling the score at 1-1.
Fairmont State maintained offensive pressure throughout the half, with shots from
Braylyn Sparks,
Arrington Sparks, and
Serenity Thomas testing the Kutztown goalkeeper.
Olivia Johnston made critical saves, keeping the game even. The half ended with both teams locked at 1-1, setting up a competitive second half.
The second half began with a crucial save by Johnston, who denied Kutztown's early attempt in the 47th minute. The Falcons capitalized on this momentum shift when Stalhammar found the back of the net in the 51st minute, extending the lead to 2-1. Kutztown increased their offensive pressure, but Johnston remained steadfast, making multiple saves to preserve the advantage.
The Falcons continued to create opportunities, including a shot by
Arrington Sparks that was saved. The team maintained their lead through solid defensive efforts, with Johnston making key saves and the defense holding firm against multiple corner kicks from Kutztown. The game concluded with the Falcons maintaining their 2-1 lead.
Johnston recorded seven saves, helping secure the win for the Falcons. Stalhammar contributed significantly with two goals, including the game-winning goal. Diaz added an assist, providing key support in the offensive effort. Thomas was active on the attack, leading the team with three shots on goal.
Fairmont State will now face the winner of West Chester and West Virginia State in the second round of NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Championship on Sunday, November 23. Start time is slated for 1:00 p.m.
