CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA — #1 Virginia overwhelmed High Point 5-0 on Friday in the NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship, showcasing the offensive firepower that has defined the Cavaliers' season. Playing before 1,212 spectators, Virginia controlled the match from start to finish, outshooting the Panthers 41-1 while recording 19 shots on goal to High Point's zero.
Ella Carter opened the scoring in the 12th minute, assisted by Maggie Cagle, giving Virginia an early advantage the visitors never threatened to overcome. Allie Ross extended the lead to 2-0 in the 35th minute with help from Sophia Bradley, and the Cavaliers' dominance only intensified after halftime. Addison Halpern added the third goal in the 60th minute, receiving assists from Pearl Cecil and Cagle, before Cagle scored her own goal in the 65th minute to make it 4-0.
Sophia Bradley capped the rout with a fifth goal in the 86th minute, assisted by Kira Waller and Tatum Galvin. Virginia's relentless attacking created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match, with the team recording 11 corner kicks compared to High Point's zero. The Cavaliers' defense proved equally stingy, forcing High Point into a single shot attempt while goalkeeper Victoria Safradin and her backup recorded a combined shutout.
High Point, competing in the NCAA Tournament after winning the Big South Championship game, struggled to generate any offensive rhythm against Virginia's suffocating defense. The Panthers' goalkeeper made 14 saves but faced an overwhelming barrage of chances. High Point's record now stands at 5-10-5 following the loss, while Virginia improved to 13-3-4 with the dominant victory.
The match demonstrated why Virginia enters the tournament as the top seed. The Cavaliers' depth allowed them to rotate players throughout the contest, with multiple substitutions in the second half barely affecting their attacking efficiency. Kiki Maki received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 75th minute, the match's only disciplinary action.
Virginia's now plays the winner of Army and Penn State.