ATHENS, OHIO - Buffalo (11-3-1) continued their strong season with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ohio (3-8-5) on Thursday afternoon in a Mid-American Conference matchup. The Bulls extended their winning streak to two games while dealing the Bobcats their second straight loss.
Eva Blatz put Buffalo ahead in the 27th minute, connecting on a shot from the left side of the box after a setup from Ellie Simmons. Koby Commandant doubled the Bulls' advantage in the 64th minute with Sarah Woods providing the assist. Ohio mounted a late comeback attempt when Iro Fakinou found the net in the 88th minute off a combination play from Kate Robinson and Maia Kaufman, but the Bulls held on for the victory.
The first half saw Ohio control much of the early possession, with Kate Robinson testing the Buffalo defense in the 24th minute with a blocked shot. Scout Murray and Jaimason Brooker both created dangerous opportunities, while Rayann Pruss had two attempts sail just wide of the target. Buffalo's defense, anchored by their backline, weathered the early pressure before Blatz's breakthrough goal shifted momentum.
The second half featured increased intensity from both sides. Buffalo's tactical adjustments paid dividends when Commandant extended their lead. The Bulls made several key substitutions, with Jasmine Guerber and Laiken Kiser providing fresh energy in attack. Ohio responded with aggressive pressing, leading to Fakinou's late goal, but couldn't find an equalizer despite sustained pressure in the final minutes.
Ohio dominated the shot count 14-6, but Buffalo proved more clinical with their opportunities. The Bobcats earned seven corner kicks to Buffalo's three, highlighting their territorial advantage. The match saw three yellow cards, all shown to Buffalo players, with Lexie Thompson and Frederique St.-Jean both cautioned for unsporting behavior.
Individually, Rayann Pruss led Ohio's attack with three shot attempts, while Eva Blatz's goal came from her only shot of the match. Both goalkeepers were tested throughout, with Buffalo's netminder recording four saves and Ohio's keeper making three crucial stops to keep the match competitive.
Buffalo's defensive organization proved crucial, particularly in dealing with Ohio's set-piece threats. The Bulls' counterattacking strategy paid dividends, with both goals coming from well-executed transitions. Ohio's high-pressing approach created numerous chances but ultimately lacked the finishing touch needed to overcome the deficit.
The victory strengthens Buffalo's position near the top of the conference standings, while Ohio's struggles continue despite showing improved attacking prowess. The Bulls' ability to secure road victories has been a hallmark of their successful campaign, now standing at 11-3-1 overall.
Buffalo's disciplined defensive performance, despite receiving three yellow cards, demonstrated their ability to manage game situations effectively. Ohio's 14 shots indicated their attacking intent, but the Bulls' clinical finishing proved the difference in a match that showcased both teams' contrasting styles.
Looking ahead, Buffalo returns home to face Bowling Green on October 23rd at 7:00 PM, while Ohio hosts Northern Illinois on October 19th at 1:00 PM as both teams continue their conference campaigns.