Monarchs Rally from Early Deficit to Hand Hokies Stunning Upset in Norfolk
NORFOLK, Va. – In a match that will be remembered as one of the season's most stunning upsets, Old Dominion rallied from an early deficit to defeat 20th-ranked Virginia Tech 2-1 Thursday evening at the ODU Soccer Complex.
The Monarchs (record) transformed what appeared to be a comfortable evening for the visiting Hokies into a nightmare, scoring twice in the first half to overcome Virginia Tech's early strike and secure a signature victory against ranked opposition.
First Half Drama
Virginia Tech drew first blood in the 24th minute when Ellie Robertson found the back of the net with an unassisted effort, capitalizing on the Hokies' early territorial dominance. The goal seemed to validate Virginia Tech's lofty ranking as they controlled possession and created several promising opportunities.
But Old Dominion refused to fold. The Monarchs found their equalizer just 14 minutes later when Riley Mullen converted a well-worked sequence, with Yuliia Khrystiuk providing the assist. The goal energized the home crowd and shifted momentum decisively in ODU's favor.
The Monarchs completed their remarkable first-half turnaround in the 35th minute through Brooke Edwards, who converted a header off a service from Finja Kappmeier. The goal capped a dominant spell for ODU and left Virginia Tech reeling heading into the break.
Second Half Battle
Virginia Tech emerged from halftime with renewed urgency, launching wave after wave of attacks in search of an equalizer. The Hokies generated several dangerous chances, forcing ODU goalkeeper Lauren Hargrove into multiple crucial saves that proved decisive in preserving the upset.
Both teams made tactical adjustments throughout the second half, with Virginia Tech pushing numbers forward while Old Dominion looked to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. The Monarchs defended resolutely, absorbing pressure while creating occasional threats of their own.
Discipline nearly cost both sides late in the match, with Virginia Tech's Taylor Lewin and Old Dominion's Gry Boe Thrysoe and Riley Mullen receiving yellow cards in the closing stages. Despite the tension, neither team could find the decisive final touch.
Key Statistics
The match statistics reflected the competitive nature of the encounter. While shot totals and possession were relatively even, Old Dominion's clinical finishing proved the difference. The Monarchs converted two of their limited first-half opportunities, while Virginia Tech struggled to find the net despite sustained pressure.
Hargrove's performance between the posts proved crucial for ODU, as she made several key saves to preserve the victory. Virginia Tech's inability to convert their second-half chances ultimately cost them valuable points against conference opposition.
Looking Ahead
The victory represents a massive result for Old Dominion's season aspirations, proving they can compete with the nation's elite programs. For Virginia Tech, the loss serves as a reminder that no opponent can be taken lightly in college soccer's competitive landscape.