September 18, 2024 – Emporia State soccer battled against Drury on Wednesday afternoon at the ESU Pitch as the Hornets and Panthers played to a 1-1 tie.
The Emporia State home opener started slow between the Hornets and Panthers with Emporia State recording the first shot of the match in the ninth minute on an attempt from
Megan Kephart. Over the remainder of the half, Drury gained some control and racked up shots, including three attempts on goal that forced saves from
Mackenzi Goen.
Emporia State eventually fell behind as a foul in the box gave the Panthers a penalty kick in the 41st minute which was converted to put Drury ahead 1-0. The Hornets registered another shot in the 43rd minute but entered the break trailing 1-0.
In the second half, Drury controlled much of the possession and outshot the Hornets following an opportunity from Kephart in the 54th minute. With under nine minutes remaining, the Hornets equalized in the 82nd minute. The Hornets earned a free kick just beyond midfield and on a free kick from
Ella Ruliffson, the ball deflected off a Drury defender and into the net as Emporia State pulled level with the Panthers.
Over the final eight minutes, Drury added four shots to their total, with none proving a real threat to Goen in goal as Emporia State played to a 1-1 tie against Drury in their home opener.
Ella Ruliffson's goal in the 82nd minute as the first of her Hornet career.
Mackenzi Goen had seven saves for the Hornets.
Emporia State will be off this weekend before their next action on Friday, September 27 as they host Newman at the ESU Pitch in the MIAA opener. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
