October 19, 2025 - Emporia State soccer fell 2-1 at home against Northeastern State on Sunday afternoon. Goals for the Riverhawks early in both halves proved to be the difference in the match despite a sizable shot advantage for the Hornets.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Northeastern State converted the first opportunity for either team in the match, as Sydney Taylor scored in the fifth minute to give the Riverhawks an early 1-0 lead. Emporia State held the shot advantage over the final 40 minutes of the first half, which included three shots on target to force saves by the Riverhawk goalkeeper.
Emporia State had eight first-half shots to just six from Northeastern State, but the Hornets trailed the Riverhawks 1-0 at the break.
The Riverhawks replicated their early first half success into their second goal of the match, as Taylor scored her second in the 49th minute to double their lead. Following the second Northeastern State goal, Emporia State gained offensive control for the remainder of the match,
The Hornets created several chances, including in the 57th minute where a shot by
Madeline Bracy hit the left post and after the rebound fell to
Ella Favot, the freshman's attempt hit the right post to deny Emporia State their first goal. The first goal for Emporia State would come shortly after, as
Hailey Gancarz scored her third goal of the season, beating the Riverhawk defenders to a rebound after a
Megan Kephart shot in the 64th minute to make the score 2-1.
Emporia State continued to generate chances as they searched for their second, as they added six more shots in the final 26 minutes, with their best opportunity came with just over two minutes remaining, as an attempt by
Ruby Ryan hit the post. The Hornets were unable to find the equalizer, as they fell 2-1 against Northeastern State.
A LOOK AT THE STATS
Emporia State outshot Northeastern State 22-8 in the match, which included nine shots on goal and three shots hitting the woodwork.
Hailey Gancarz scored her third goal of the season, and the assist by
Megan Kephart was her fifth of the season, as she now has 13 points on the season.
UP NEXT
Emporia State will be back on the ESU Pitch on Friday, October 24 as they host Nebraska-Kearney. Kickoff between the Hornets and Lopers is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
