PROVO, UTAH — Kansas defeated BYU 3-1 on Thursday evening at the BYU Soccer Complex, extending the Jayhawks' winning streak to two matches while handing the Cougars their first loss in three contests. The visiting Kansas squad (11-3-3, 0.735 winning percentage) controlled significant portions of the match and capitalized on their scoring opportunities, while BYU (8-5-3, 0.594 winning percentage) struggled to maintain consistency despite a spirited second-half effort.
Saige Wimes opened the scoring for Kansas in the 7th minute, assisted by Livvy Moore, giving the Jayhawks an early advantage. Jillian Gregorski extended Kansas' lead in the 12th minute with an assist from Kate Langfelder, doubling the visitors' advantage. Lexi Watts added a third goal for Kansas in the 24th minute, establishing a commanding 3-0 lead before halftime. Ellie Walbruch scored BYU's lone goal in the 55th minute with an assist from Afton Perry, but the Cougars could not mount a sufficient comeback despite their second-half adjustments.
The first half belonged almost entirely to Kansas, which dominated possession and created multiple scoring opportunities. The Jayhawks' attacking movement proved too much for BYU's defensive structure in the early stages. Emika Kawagishi tested BYU's goalkeeper with a shot in the 1st minute that sailed high of the goal. Jillian Gregorski registered a blocked shot in the 7th minute, and Saige Wimes missed another opportunity in the 7th minute before Wimes finally broke through for the opening goal. Kansas' early pressure paid dividends, and by the 24th minute, the Jayhawks had established complete control of the match with their three-goal advantage. BYU managed limited offensive chances in the first half, with Mika Krommenhoek firing wide in the 20th minute being their most notable attempt. Afton Perry received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 22nd minute, further disrupting BYU's rhythm.
The second half saw BYU emerge with renewed intensity and tactical adjustments. The Cougars made six substitutions at halftime, introducing fresh legs and attempting to shift the momentum. Ellie Walbruch's goal in the 55th minute provided hope for a potential comeback, but Kansas' three-goal cushion proved insurmountable. Despite BYU's improved play in the second 45 minutes, the Jayhawks' defense held firm. Halle Dixon, Kate Denney, and Mika Krommenhoek generated chances for BYU, but Kansas goalkeeper made crucial saves to preserve the lead. Jordan Fjelstad received a yellow card for Kansas in the 81st minute for unsporting conduct, the only disciplinary action against the Jayhawks.
Kansas outshot BYU 12-15 in total attempts, though both teams recorded six shots on goal. The Jayhawks' goalkeeper made five saves compared to BYU's three. Kansas earned four corner kicks to BYU's five, while both teams received one yellow card each. The Cougars' defensive vulnerabilities in the opening 45 minutes proved decisive, as they could not recover from the early deficit despite their second-half improvements.
Saige Wimes led Kansas' attacking efforts with multiple scoring opportunities throughout the match, while Jillian Gregorski demonstrated clinical finishing with her goal in the 12th minute. Lexi Watts' 24th-minute goal showcased Kansas' ability to capitalize on defensive lapses. For BYU, Ellie Walbruch provided the offensive spark in the second half, and goalkeeper made several important saves to limit the damage.
Kansas' victory extends their winning streak and improves their conference standing as they prepare for their next contest against Utah on October 26. BYU faces UCF on October 27, seeking to bounce back from this home defeat and regain their winning form.