CLAREMORE, Okla. — Rogers State women's soccer (0-2-4, 0-0-1) and Missouri Western (4-0-2, 0-0-1) battled to a 2-2 draw on Friday night at Soldier Field in the MIAA opener. Both of RSU's shots led to goals, MoWest scored a pair in the final minute.
Rogers State and Missouri Western commenced the match with a scoreless first half. Missouri Western dominated the attacking play early, with multiple shots, including a notable attempt by Ava Smith, saved by
Calais Butts at the 3:35 mark. Butts continued her strong performance, making several key saves throughout the half, including stopping shots from Alyssa French in the 23rd minute and Brookelyn Buttolph in the 39th minute. Despite Missouri Western's persistent offensive efforts, the half concluded at 0-0, with the Hillcats managing to hold firm defensively.
The Hillcats took an early lead in the second half with a goal by
Kenzie Macklin (1) first goal as a Hillcat, in the 46th minute, assisted by
Courtney Castleberry and
Savannah Green.
Elle Beaulieu (3) extended the lead to 2-0 in the 73rd minute, scoring with an assist from Macklin. Missouri Western responded late in the game, with Kiara Carr scoring in the 90th minute, assisted by Camrin Peaslee. Just seconds later, Kendall Knisley equalized in dramatic fashion, also assisted by Peaslee, resulting in a 2-2 draw as the period concluded.
Butts recorded eight saves in goal, including five in the first half. Beaulieu scored one goal on her only shot, which was on target. Macklin contributed both a goal and an assist, converting her only shot on goal. Green registered an assist, adding to the team's offensive efforts.
Knisley led Missouri Western with a standout performance, scoring one goal and taking seven shots, two of which were on target. Peaslee contributed significantly with two assists and three shots, including one on goal. Carr made her mark by scoring one goal on her only shot attempt. French was active offensively, recording four shots with one on goal.
RSU will return to action on Sunday to take on No. 10 Central Missouri. Action from Soldier Field will begin at 1:00 p.m.
