SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. — West Chester and Shepherd played to a 2-2 draw Wednesday in a competitive NCAA Division II matchup that saw both teams squander opportunities to secure victory. The Golden Rams, ranked among regional powerhouses at 10-1-4, matched the Rams' intensity throughout the contest but couldn't break through late despite sustained pressure.
Shepherd struck first when Josie Beezel scored in the 5th minute, assisted by Sarah Peternel, giving the home side an early advantage. West Chester equalized through Lauren Reimold in the 33rd minute, with Kianna Barber and Victoria Pungello combining on the assist to level the match heading into halftime.
The second half remained tightly contested until Olivia Conroy restored West Chester's lead in the 50th minute with an unassisted goal. Shepherd responded decisively when Anaya Lozano scored in the 85th minute, assisted by Lydia Gable, to force the draw and deny the visitors a crucial road victory.
Shepherd dominated possession metrics, recording 10 shot attempts compared to West Chester's four, though the Golden Rams proved more clinical in front of goal. The home side generated five corner kicks to West Chester's three, creating multiple scoring opportunities that went unrealized. West Chester's goalkeeper made three saves to preserve the draw.
Lauren Reimold's equalizer proved pivotal for West Chester's comeback bid, while Olivia Conroy's go-ahead goal showcased the visitors' efficiency. For Shepherd, Josie Beezel's early strike set the tone, an