LUBBOCK, TEXAS - Texas Tech (13-2-2) secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Kansas State (7-6-4) on Sunday afternoon at John Walker Soccer Complex. Taylor Zdrojewski netted twice while Macy Blackburn added another as the Red Raiders extended their impressive home record.
Zdrojewski opened the scoring in the 21st minute, connecting with a precise assist from Sam Courtwright and Molly Skurcenski. Kansas State equalized through Allison Marshall in the 55th minute, with Emerson DeLuca providing the assist. Zdrojewski restored Texas Tech's lead in the 68th minute off service from Raleigh Greason and Alana Harry, before Blackburn sealed the win in the 72nd minute with assistance from Courtwright and Zdrojewski.
The first half showcased Texas Tech's attacking prowess, with Zdrojewski's early strike setting the tone. The Red Raiders generated multiple chances, including shots from Eleanor Hays and Sam Courtwright. Kansas State's defense, anchored by Emerson DeLuca, weathered significant pressure but struggled to contain Texas Tech's fluid attack. The Wildcats managed two attempts through Jayce Woodward and Andra Mohler in the 11th and 15th minutes respectively.
After Marshall's equalizer early in the second half, Texas Tech responded with increased intensity. The tactical shift saw Zdrojewski finding more space in attacking positions, leading to her second goal. Blackburn's strike came during a period of sustained pressure, effectively ending Kansas State's resistance. The Wildcats' Ava Patterson received a yellow card in the 67th minute, reflecting the mounting frustration as Texas Tech controlled possession.
The final statistics highlighted Texas Tech's dominance, outshooting Kansas State 10-7 with six shots on target compared to the Wildcats' four. The Red Raiders earned three corner kicks while conceding five, demonstrating their ability to defend set pieces effectively. Kansas State collected two yellow cards, with DeLuca also cautioned in the 24th minute.
Zdrojewski's two-goal performance headlined individual achievements, while Sam Courtwright's two assists showcased her playmaking ability. Kansas State's Marshall provided a bright spot with her goal, while Mohler tested the Texas Tech defense with multiple threatening runs. Both goalkeepers recorded three saves in an entertaining contest.
Texas Tech's tactical approach emphasized quick transitions and wing play, with Kate Leibel and Molly Skurcenski providing width. Kansas State attempted to counter through direct play, but struggled to maintain possession against the Red Raiders' aggressive pressing system. The introduction of Skylar Haase in the second half added fresh energy to Texas Tech's attack.
The victory maintains Texas Tech's strong position near the top of the conference standings, bouncing back from their recent loss to Colorado. For Kansas State, the defeat extends their winless streak to three matches, highlighting their offensive struggles away from home.
Texas Tech's comprehensive performance featured effective combination play and tactical discipline, particularly after conceding the equalizer. The Red Raiders' ability to respond to adversity and control the match's tempo proved decisive in securing all three points.
Both teams return to action on October 30, with Texas Tech hosting UCF in an 8:00 PM kickoff, while Kansas State welcomes Iowa State for a 7:30 PM start. The Red Raiders will look to build on this momentum, while the Wildcats seek to regroup and end their recent slide.