UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State (9-6-3) secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Ohio State (8-3-6) in front of 2,347 fans at Jeffrey Field on Sunday afternoon. The Nittany Lions extended their home winning streak while dealing the Buckeyes their first loss in three matches.
The match's breakthrough came in the 29th minute when Ohio State conceded an own goal following a free kick, putting Penn State up 1-0. The Nittany Lions doubled their advantage through Kaitlyn MacBean's strike in the 56th minute, with Riley Cross and Molly Martin providing the assists on a well-executed attacking sequence.
Penn State dominated the first half proceedings, generating multiple scoring opportunities through Hannah Jordan and Riley Gleason. Jordan tested the Buckeyes' defense with a low shot in the 4th minute, while Gleason had two attempts in quick succession around the 24th minute. Ohio State's Amanda Schlueter provided their best chance of the opening period with a shot in the 15th minute that missed just wide.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides, with Ohio State pushing for an equalizer early after the break. However, Penn State's defensive unit, anchored by strong performances from their backline, maintained control. The Buckeyes' frustration showed through yellow cards to Ava Bramblett (29'), Netta-Nina Hiltunen (36'), and Amanda Schlueter (71').
The statistical advantage clearly favored Penn State, who outshot Ohio State 17-9, with seven shots on target compared to the Buckeyes' three. The Nittany Lions also held an 8-3 edge in corner kicks, demonstrating their superior attacking presence throughout the match. Penn State's goalkeeper recorded three saves for the clean sheet, while Ohio State's netminder made six stops.
Individual performances highlighted the match, with Kaitlyn MacBean leading Penn State's attack with multiple shot attempts, including her decisive goal. Riley Gleason created consistent pressure with three shots, while Hannah Jordan's early attacking movements set the tone. For Ohio State, Amanda Schlueter showed offensive promise despite the team's struggles to find the net.
Tactically, Penn State's approach focused on controlling possession and utilizing width to stretch Ohio State's defense. The Buckeyes attempted to counter through quick transitions but struggled to maintain sustained pressure in the final third. Both teams made strategic substitutions throughout the second half, with Penn State's changes proving more effective in maintaining their advantage.
The victory strengthens Penn State's position in the conference standings, bouncing back from their recent loss to Indiana. For Ohio State, the defeat ends their two-game winning streak and highlights areas for improvement in their attacking organization.
Looking ahead, Penn State will travel to Michigan State next Thursday, while Ohio State returns home to host Wisconsin on Sunday. The Nittany Lions' defensive organization and clinical finishing proved decisive in a match that showcased their ability to control play against a strong conference opponent.