No. 11 Penn State Blanks Santa Clara 2-0 Behind Kulpa's Perfect Performance
Nittany Lions forward scores twice in season opener as defense earns clean sheet at Home Stadium
UNIVERSITY PARK, PA – No. 11 Penn State opened their 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Santa Clara 2-0 at Home Stadium on Thursday evening behind a dominant two-goal performance from forward Aubrey Kulpa and a suffocating defensive display that kept the Broncos off the scoreboard.
The Nittany Lions (1-0-0) controlled proceedings from the opening whistle, outshooting Santa Clara 9-4 while putting four shots on target compared to the Broncos' zero. Kulpa proved to be the difference-maker, converting two of her three shot attempts to give Penn State all the offense they would need in their season opener.
Penn State's attacking prowess was evident throughout the match, with the home side creating consistent pressure through their forward line. Kulpa, who played 59 minutes before being substituted, showcased clinical finishing that has become her trademark. The junior forward's movement in the box and ability to find space proved too much for a Santa Clara defense that struggled to contain the Nittany Lions' fluid attack.
The supporting cast played crucial roles in Penn State's victory. Riley Gleason orchestrated play from midfield, tallying an assist during her 71 minutes of action, while Molly Martin contributed another helper from her central midfield position. Amelia White added creativity from the forward line, recording an assist and putting one shot on target during her 63-minute stint.
Santa Clara (0-1-0) entered the match looking to build on their previous season's foundation but found themselves overwhelmed by Penn State's intensity. The Broncos managed just four shots throughout the 90 minutes, with none troubling Penn State goalkeeper Mackenzie Gress, who earned a clean sheet in her season debut.
The visitors' attack, led by forwards Jalana Kimber and Mailin Orozco, struggled to create meaningful chances against a well-organized Penn State defense. Kimber and Orozco each registered one shot, but neither could find the target as the Nittany Lions' backline, anchored by Bella Ayscue and Kayleigh Herr, remained resolute throughout the match.
Santa Clara's midfield duo of Kat Jordan and Hildi Benediktsdottir worked tirelessly to establish possession, with Jordan playing the full 90 minutes and Benediktsdottir contributing 75 minutes. However, their efforts were consistently thwarted by Penn State's pressing and tactical discipline.
The Broncos' defensive struggles were compounded by a yellow card to defender Izzy Debuyl, who played 76 minutes before being substituted. Santa Clara's backline, despite the efforts of stalwarts Addie Whitehouse and Malia Yamamoto, couldn't contain Penn State's multi-faceted attack.
Penn State head coach utilized the team's depth effectively, making strategic substitutions throughout the match. The Nittany Lions rotated fresh legs into the lineup, with players like Riley Cross, Kennedy Ring, and Nicollette Kiorpes contributing valuable minutes to maintain the team's high tempo.
The victory represents an ideal start for the 11th-ranked Nittany Lions, who will look to build momentum as they face a challenging early-season schedule. With upcoming matches against James Madison and Missouri State on the horizon, Penn State's balanced attack and defensive solidity provide encouraging signs for the campaign ahead.
For Santa Clara, the season opener highlighted areas needing improvement, particularly in creating scoring opportunities and defensive organization. The Broncos will need to regroup quickly with road matches against Sacramento State and Pittsburgh approaching.
Key Players
- Aubrey Kulpa (Penn State) - Scored both goals on 2-of-3 shooting in 59 minutes of action - Mackenzie Gress (Penn State) - Earned clean sheet with solid goalkeeping performance over 90 minutes - Riley Gleason (Penn State) - Controlled midfield and recorded one assist in 71 minutes