AMHERST, MASSACHUSETTS - Hailey Jeng needed just 7:32 to write the story of Ohio's dominance, slotting home her first goal of the season and setting the tone for a 4-1 thrashing of Massachusetts before 842 fans at Rudd Field.
The early breakthrough unleashed a torrent of offense from the Bobcats, with Ella Deevers doubling the lead in the 38th minute after threading a perfectly weighted pass through the Minutewomen's defense to find Maia Kaufman, who then assisted Deevers' finish. Kaufman's own goal just a minute later, rifling a shot past Massachusetts goalkeeper Emily Wilson, made it 3-0 and sent the home team reeling.
The first half became a defensive struggle for Massachusetts, who managed just two shot attempts against Ohio's nine. The Bobcats' high-intensity press forced multiple turnovers, and their transition play proved too quick for the Minutewomen to handle. Ohio's third goal came at a time when Massachusetts was already reeling, and the visitors' confidence grew with each passing minute.
The second half saw Ohio continue their assault, with Kate Robinson netting their fourth goal in the 54th minute off a through ball from Rayann Pruss. Massachusetts finally got on the board through Aline Traber's unassisted goal in the 61st minute, but it was too little, too late. Kaufman added her second goal of the match just moments later, completing Ohio's scoring.
Ohio's attacking prowess was on full display throughout the match, as they outshot Massachusetts 31-12 overall and held a significant 13-8 advantage in shots on goal. The Bobcats' corner kick count may have been lower (3-4), but they made their chances count, converting four goals from their opportunities. Massachusetts, on the other hand, struggled to create clear chances, with many of their shots being blocked or saved by Ohio's goalkeeper.
The victory represents Ohio's first win in their last four matches and improves their record to 6-9-5 overall, while Massachusetts falls to 5-7-5 and extends their losing streak to three games. The win was a significant confidence booster for Ohio, who will look to build on this momentum when they face Miami next. For Massachusetts, the loss highlights their defensive vulnerabilities and the need to regroup before hosting Bowling Green.
The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two teams - one that controlled the game and another that struggled to cope. Ohio's 31 shot attempts dwarfed Massachusetts' 12, and their 13 shots on goal nearly doubled the Minutewomen's total. The Bobcats' defensive solidity was tested but ultimately held firm, with their goalkeeper making nine saves to deny Massachusetts any hope of a comeback.
As Ohio looks to their next match against Miami, they'll be buoyed by their offensive display and the confidence that comes with a hard-fought win on the road. For Massachusetts, the task ahead is to regroup and address their defensive frailties before hosting Bowling Green. The Minutewomen will need to tighten their defense and create more scoring opportunities if they hope to turn their season around.
The afternoon belonged to Ohio - and specifically to their attacking duo of Deevers and Kaufman, who combined for three goals and two assists between them. Their performance was a masterclass in clinical finishing and intelligent movement, leaving Massachusetts struggling to contain their threat.
Key Players:
Hailey Jeng (Ohio) – Slotted home the opening goal with precision, setting the tone for Ohio's dominant display.
Ella Deevers (Ohio) – Scored one goal and assisted another, showcasing her ability to create and finish scoring opportunities.
Maia Kaufman (Ohio) – Netting one goal and assisting another, Kaufman's performance was instrumental in Ohio's victory.
Aline Traber (Massachusetts) – Scored the Minutewomen's consolation goal, providing a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dismal performance.