MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - West Virginia (12-2-3) continued their winning ways with a commanding 2-0 victory over Oklahoma State (4-12-2) on Sunday afternoon at Dick Dlesk Soccer Stadium. The Mountaineers extended their winning streak to three matches while handing the Cowgirls their eighth consecutive defeat.
Ava Arnold put West Virginia ahead in the 5th minute, connecting on a well-placed assist from Anna Hauer. The Mountaineers doubled their advantage in the 54th minute when Abbey Olexa found the back of the net off a feed from Ajanae Respass, effectively sealing the match.
The first half saw West Virginia establish early dominance, with Olivia Shertzer testing Oklahoma State goalkeeper Logan Marks in the 3rd minute. The Mountaineers maintained consistent pressure, forcing multiple saves from Marks. Anna Hauer created several dangerous opportunities, including two shots in the 17th and 19th minutes that narrowly missed the target.
West Virginia's control continued after the break, with Olexa's goal coming after sustained pressure. The Mountaineers' tactical adjustments paid dividends as Maya Leoni and Layla Thompson provided fresh energy off the bench. Oklahoma State's best chance came in the 73rd minute when Thompson forced a save from Marks, but the Cowgirls struggled to generate consistent attacking opportunities.
The statistical dominance was evident throughout, as West Virginia outshot Oklahoma State 27-1, including 10 shots on target. The Mountaineers earned 13 corner kicks to Oklahoma State's 2, highlighting their territorial advantage. Logan Marks made 8 saves for the Cowgirls in a valiant effort, while the match saw three yellow cards issued - two to West Virginia and one to Oklahoma State's Katelyn Hoppers.
Individual performances stood out for both sides. Ava Arnold's early goal set the tone, while Abbey Olexa's clinical finish demonstrated West Virginia's depth in attack. Oklahoma State's Logan Marks proved exceptional despite the loss, making several crucial interventions to keep the scoreline respectable. Ajanae Respass's creative playmaking was evident in her assist on the second goal.
Tactically, West Virginia's high-pressing approach disrupted Oklahoma State's attempts to build from the back. The Mountaineers' rotation of attacking players, including substitutes Alicia Riggins and Kailyn Effah, maintained consistent pressure. The Cowgirls attempted to counter through quick transitions but struggled to connect in the final third.
The victory strengthens West Virginia's position near the top of the conference standings as they continue their impressive campaign. For Oklahoma State, the result extends a difficult stretch, though Logan Marks's performance between the posts provides a bright spot to build upon.
West Virginia's tactical discipline and depth proved decisive, with their ability to maintain pressure throughout both halves wearing down the visitors. The Mountaineers will look to extend their winning streak when they host Cincinnati on October 30, while Oklahoma State returns home to face Baylor the same evening, seeking to snap their losing streak.
The match officials had a busy afternoon, with referee decisions playing a role in the flow of the game. West Virginia's professional game management in the closing stages, led by experienced players like Maddie Levy and Taylor White, helped secure their third consecutive clean sheet.