The #1 Stanford Cardinal edged the #5 Virginia Cavaliers 3-2 at Stanford Stadium in front of 1077 spectators, with a late goal from Maggie Cagle proving the difference.
The match started quickly, with both teams creating early chances. Charlotte Kohler broke the deadlock in the 8th minute, finishing a through ball from Jasmine Aikey. Kohler doubled Stanford's advantage in the 30th minute, converting a cross from Y-Lan Nguyen. The Cardinal continued to press, and Jasmine Aikey finally got on the scoresheet in the 44th minute, assisted by Nguyen and Andrea Kitahata.
Virginia pushed hard in the second half for a comeback, and they were rewarded when Meredith McDermott netted in the 57th minute, assisted by Ella Carter. The Cavaliers continued to press, and their efforts were rewarded when Taryn Torres scored in the 75th minute. However, Stanford's defense held firm. Maggie Cagle scored in the 84th minute to seal the win for the Cardinal.
Stanford's victory was built on their attacking prowess. The Cardinal outshot Virginia 10-8 on target, with both teams recording 20 total shot attempts., demonstrating the open nature of the contest. Virginia's Ella Carter was a constant threat, creating chances for her teammates, while Stanford's defense was marshaled effectively by goalkeeper Katie Meyer, who made six saves to deny the Cavaliers.
The win extends Stanford's unbeaten streak to 10 games, with the Cardinal now boasting a 16-1-1 record, including a 9-0-1 mark in conference play. Virginia, meanwhile, suffered their first loss in their last two outings, dropping to 12-3-4 overall and 6-2-2 in conference. Stanford's next challenge comes against a tough opponent, while Virginia will look to regroup against a struggling team.
Charlotte Kohler scored twice for Stanford, while Meredith McDermott netted a crucial goal for Virginia. Jasmine Aikey, Y-Lan Nguyen, and Andrea Kitahata also contributed for the Cardinal, with Ella Carter and Taryn Torres creating chances for the Cavaliers. The Cardinal's victory demonstrated their depth and resilience, with players like Maggie Cagle making decisive contributions. Stanford's record and ranking now stand as a benchmark for their conference rivals, who will be looking to challenge them in the remaining fixtures.
Stanford's attacking efficiency and defensive solidity proved decisive against Virginia, as the Cardinal earned a hard-fought victory. The win keeps Stanford at the top of the conference standings, while Virginia will look to regroup after their first loss in two games.