STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA - BYU secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Oklahoma State on Monday evening at Neal Patterson Stadium, extending their unbeaten streak to two matches. The Cougars (7-3-2) controlled play throughout, demonstrating clinical finishing in front of a crowd of 1,247.
Lucy Kesler opened the scoring for BYU in the 26th minute with a right-footed strike to the high right corner. The Cougars maintained their offensive pressure, creating multiple scoring opportunities through precise build-up play and aggressive pressing.
The first half showcased BYU's attacking prowess, with Ellie Walbruch recording three shots in a 15-minute span (14th, 15th, and 17th minutes). The Cougars' midfield control was evident as they generated eight shots before the break, while limiting Oklahoma State to just three attempts. Emma Alvord provided the Cowgirls' best chance in the 5th minute, but her effort sailed high.
BYU's dominance continued after halftime, with Mia Goettsche testing the Oklahoma State defense in the 70th minute with a shot that narrowly missed the right post. The Cowgirls struggled to maintain possession against BYU's high press, though Katelyn Hoppers managed to create danger with an attempt in the 87th minute that went high.
The statistical advantage heavily favored BYU, who outshot Oklahoma State 26-10, including an 11-3 edge in shots on target. The Cougars earned six corner kicks to the Cowgirls' four, while both teams showed discipline with only three total yellow cards issued - one to BYU's Ellie Walbruch and two to Oklahoma State's Logan Marks and Madi Asel.
Lucy Kesler led the offensive charge for BYU with multiple dangerous attempts, while Ellie Walbruch contributed four shots before being substituted in the 86th minute. For Oklahoma State, Emma Alvord provided spark with two shots, while Taryn Thibeau showed defensive resilience despite the scoreline.
The tactical battle highlighted BYU's superior possession game, as they consistently found space between Oklahoma State's defensive lines. The Cowgirls attempted to counter through quick transitions but struggled to break through BYU's organized defensive structure, anchored by strong performances from their backline.
This result continues contrasting trajectories for both programs, with BYU extending their strong form while Oklahoma State (4-7-2) suffered their third consecutive defeat. The Cougars' balanced attack and defensive solidarity demonstrated why they've been one of the conference's more formidable sides this season.
The match featured significant substitution patterns, with both teams making multiple changes to maintain intensity. BYU's depth proved crucial, as fresh legs helped maintain their high-pressing system throughout the second half. Notable substitutions included Mia Goettsche and Camryn Jorgensen, who both made positive impacts after entering.
Looking ahead, BYU travels to face Baylor on October 10th at 8:00 PM, while Oklahoma State hosts Kansas State at the same time, seeking to end their losing streak. The Cowgirls will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded multiple goals in their last three matches.