EDINBURG, TEXAS — UTRGV broke through early and often against Lamar University on Thursday, securing a 3-1 victory that snapped a two-game losing streak for the Vaqueros. Playing at home, the hosts controlled the tempo from the opening minutes and capitalized on their chances, with Savannah Frisby getting them on the board in the third minute. The win improved UTRGV to 5-10-2 on the season, while Lamar fell to 6-7-5 despite a late consolation goal.
Frisby's early strike set the tone for a dominant first half. The Vaqueros struck again in the 20th minute when Sienna Church finished a chance created by Erika Parker, extending the lead to 2-0. That two-goal cushion proved comfortable enough, as UTRGV's defense held firm despite Lamar's attempts to find rhythm. The Cardinals managed just three shots on goal through 45 minutes, unable to generate sustained pressure against a UTRGV backline that limited their opportunities.
The second half saw UTRGV add insurance when Abbie Bailey scored in the 54th minute, effectively putting the match out of reach at 3-0. By that point, the Vaqueros had controlled possession and limited Lamar's attacking forays. The Cardinals' defense, which had conceded early and often, struggled to organize a cohesive response. Lamar's best chance came late when Erin Dull converted in the 80th minute with an assist from Lauren Smith, but the goal merely provided a consolation marker.
UTRGV's goalkeeper made two saves while facing five shot attempts from Lamar. The Vaqueros' defense was particularly stingy early, forcing the Cardinals into difficult positions and preventing them from building momentum. Lamar's goalkeeper recorded three saves on three shots on goal, a reflection of how one-sided the match became after the opening exchanges.
The midfield battle favored UTRGV throughout, with the home side controlling the pace and dictating play. Lamar struggled to establish possession in dangerous areas, and their attempts to press forward often left them vulnerable on the counter. The Vaqueros' willingness to attack early paid dividends, as they caught the Cardinals unprepared defensively in the opening minutes.
Isabella Burtini received a yellow card for dissent in the 67th minute, while Kam Jalayer was cautioned for unsporting conduct late in the match. The disciplinary issues reflected the frustration mounting on both sides as the result became increasingly clear.
This victory represents a significant boost for UTRGV, which had dropped consecutive matches to A&M-Corpus Christi and East Texas A&M before Thursday's turnaround. The Vaqueros' ability to score early and maintain their advantage suggests they can compete effectively when they establish control from the opening whistle. For Lamar, the loss extends their struggles on the road and comes after a promising 2-0 win over Northwestern State just a week prior.
UTRGV returns to action with their next conference matchup, looking to build on this momentum. Lamar will aim to bounce back quickly and rediscover the form that produced their recent victory, knowing they'll need to improve their defensive organization and early-game focus moving forward.