MUNCIE, INDIANA - Miami (OH) (10-5-2) continued their strong run of form with a 2-1 victory over Ball State (9-6-2) on Sunday afternoon in a tightly contested Mid-American Conference matchup. The win marked Miami's third straight victory while ending Ball State's two-game winning streak.
Delaney Caldwell opened the scoring for Ball State in the 13th minute with a low strike to the left corner. Miami equalized through Morhea Hoefen in the 55th minute off an assist from Kayla Perfect, before Katie O'Malley netted the winner in the 74th minute, also assisted by Perfect.
The first half saw Ball State take early control, with Caldwell's goal energizing the home side. Miami's Maris Jennings received a yellow card in the 20th minute for unsporting behavior, reflecting the match's competitive intensity. The RedHawks generated several chances, with Katie O'Malley and Caroline Palmer both recording blocked shots before the break.
Miami emerged stronger in the second half, with Hoefen's equalizer changing the game's complexion. The match saw increasing tension, evidenced by yellow cards to Miami's Jaden Sink (73rd minute) and Ball State's Emily Roper (74th minute). O'Malley's winner came during a period of sustained RedHawks pressure, though she would later leave the match due to injury in the 77th minute.
The final statistics highlighted Miami's offensive dominance, outshooting Ball State 15-11, with nine shots on target compared to Ball State's two. The RedHawks also held a significant advantage in corner kicks (10-3). The physical nature of the match was reflected in five yellow cards - three to Miami and two to Ball State.
Kayla Perfect proved instrumental for Miami with two assists, while both Morhea Hoefen and Katie O'Malley demonstrated clinical finishing. Ball State's Delaney Caldwell showed her offensive prowess with both the opening goal and three additional shot attempts. LG Moncrief was active for Ball State, recording multiple shots despite receiving a yellow card in the 81st minute.
Tactically, Miami adjusted well after falling behind, utilizing their width to create opportunities from their ten corner kicks. Ball State's defensive organization, particularly through Tori Monaco and Addie Chester, kept them competitive despite facing sustained pressure. The RedHawks' successful high press forced several turnovers in dangerous positions.
The victory strengthens Miami's position in the MAC standings, extending their impressive run that includes recent wins over Central Michigan and Ohio. For Ball State, the loss ends their momentum following victories against Toledo and Bowling Green, though their defensive resilience against a strong Miami attack showed promise.
Both teams face quick turnarounds with matches on October 29. Miami (OH) returns home to host Kent State, while Ball State travels to Northern Illinois, both teams looking to build on their respective performances from this intense conference clash.
The match officials had their hands full, issuing five yellow cards total while managing a physical contest that saw multiple momentum swings and tactical adjustments from both sides. Miami's ability to maintain composure after falling behind ultimately proved decisive in securing their third consecutive victory.