KALAMAZOO, Mich. - Western Michigan (13-3-1) continued their impressive season with a commanding 3-1 victory over Central Michigan (0-14-3) on Sunday afternoon at the WMU Soccer Complex. The Broncos controlled play throughout, extending their winning streak to four matches.
Madi Canada opened the scoring for Western Michigan in the 14th minute, converting a well-worked assist from Abby Baldridge and Drew Martin. Avery Peters doubled the lead in the 25th minute off a feed from Abby Smothers, before Smothers herself found the net in the 47th minute with assists from Drew Martin and Justina L'Esperance. Gabriella Sapia pulled one back for Central Michigan in the 82nd minute off Rachel Jackson's assist, but it proved only a consolation.
The first half showcased Western Michigan's attacking prowess, as they dominated possession and created multiple scoring chances. Drew Martin was particularly active, recording two shots in the opening 15 minutes. The Broncos' pressure led to six corner kicks before halftime, while Central Michigan struggled to maintain possession in the attacking third. A yellow card to Central's Kylee Weed in the 13th minute reflected the visitors' difficulties containing Western's attack.
Western Michigan maintained their momentum after the break, with Abby Smothers extending the lead early in the second half. The Broncos continued to create chances, with Justina L'Esperance recording two shots on goal in the final 20 minutes. Central Michigan showed improved fight late, culminating in Sapia's goal, but couldn't overcome the three-goal deficit.
The statistical dominance of Western Michigan was evident throughout, as they outshot Central Michigan 17-2, putting 12 shots on target compared to just one for the Chippewas. The Broncos also held a commanding 14-1 advantage in corner kicks, while Central Michigan's goalkeeper was forced to make nine saves to keep the score respectable.
Several Broncos delivered standout performances, particularly Drew Martin who contributed to two goals and recorded multiple shots. Abby Smothers demonstrated her dual threat ability with both a goal and an assist, while Madi Canada continued her strong season with the opening goal. For Central Michigan, Gabriella Sapia provided a bright spot with her late strike, while Rachel Jackson showed creativity in setting up the goal.
Western Michigan's tactical approach emphasized width and quick transitions, utilizing their speed advantage through players like Avery Peters and Madi Canada. Central Michigan attempted to stay compact defensively, but struggled to contain the Broncos' movement off the ball. The visitors' defensive organization improved in the second half, though they remained under consistent pressure.
The victory reinforces Western Michigan's position as one of the MAC's top teams, extending their impressive win streak to four matches. Their efficient attacking display and defensive solidity suggest they're peaking at the right time. For Central Michigan, despite remaining winless on the season, Sapia's goal and improved second-half performance provide some positives to build upon.
Looking ahead, Western Michigan will aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to Buffalo on October 29, while Central Michigan hosts Eastern Michigan on the same day, seeking their first victory of the season. The Broncos' performance today suggests they'll be a formidable opponent in the upcoming MAC tournament, while the Chippewas will look to build on their late-game resilience.