PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY - Ohio State (7-2-6) secured a crucial 4-2 road victory over Rutgers (3-7-4) on Thursday evening in a match that featured a game-changing red card and multiple momentum shifts.
Ava Greco opened the scoring for Ohio State in the 12th minute, followed quickly by Amanda Schlueter's strike in the 13th minute to put the Buckeyes up 2-0. Jadin Bonham extended the lead in the 19th minute off an assist from Greco and Netta-Nina Hiltunen. Rutgers found life in the second half when Kennedi Cotter converted in the 62nd minute from a combination play between Ashley Baran and Gabriela Gil. Bonham netted her second of the match in the 65th minute before Reilly McGlinn pulled one back for Rutgers in the 87th minute.
The first half belonged to Ohio State, who dominated possession and created multiple dangerous chances. The Buckeyes' pressure resulted in three goals, with Greco and Schlueter particularly active in the attacking third. Rutgers struggled to maintain possession, managing only four shots in the opening 45 minutes despite earning an early corner kick.
The match's complexion changed dramatically in the 58th minute when Ohio State goalkeeper Molly Pritchard received a red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. This forced the Buckeyes to reorganize, bringing on Peighton Northrop between the posts. Despite being down to ten players, Ohio State maintained their defensive shape while Rutgers pressed for a comeback.
The final statistics reflected the match's competitive nature, with Rutgers outshooting Ohio State 21-14, though the Buckeyes were more efficient with their chances. The Scarlet Knights managed 8 shots on target to Ohio State's 7, while the Buckeyes held a 3-1 advantage in corner kicks. Both teams' goalkeepers were tested, with Ohio State recording 6 saves to Rutgers' 3.
Individual performances shaped the outcome, with Jadin Bonham's brace leading the way for Ohio State. Ava Greco's goal and assist demonstrated her impact in the final third, while Netta-Nina Hiltunen's playmaking proved crucial. For Rutgers, Kennedi Cotter and Reilly McGlinn showed resilience with their second-half goals, while Morgan Hippeli created several dangerous opportunities.
Tactically, Ohio State's high press in the first half disrupted Rutgers' build-up play, forcing turnovers that led to scoring opportunities. The Scarlet Knights adjusted after halftime, using width to stretch the ten-player Buckeyes defense, but struggled to convert their numerical advantage into enough goals.
The victory extends Ohio State's positive form, improving their conference standing while Rutgers continues to search for answers during a challenging stretch that has now reached six consecutive losses. The Buckeyes showed impressive resilience playing a player down for over 30 minutes, while Rutgers demonstrated fighting spirit in their second-half push.
Looking ahead, Ohio State will aim to maintain their momentum when they travel to Maryland on Sunday, while Rutgers hosts Michigan looking to snap their losing streak. The match showcased both teams' potential despite the contrasting recent form, with Ohio State's efficiency in front of goal ultimately proving decisive.