August 27, 2026 - Emporia State soccer scored the opening goal of the 2026 season before playing to a 1-1 draw on the road against Drury on Thursday evening.
Emporia State and Drury both had early attacking opportunities, as each team had two shots in the first ten minutes, with the Panthers' first look forcing a save from Terra Rybuck in goal. The first look on goal for the Hornets came in the 19th minute and proved to be the scoring opportunity.
Following a loose ball in the midfield that eventually fell to Drury, Avery Zimmerman forced a turnover to win possession back. Zimmerman then played the ball to Megan Kephart at the top box, who turned the Panther defender before ripping a shot into the top right corner to beat the keeper and put the Hornets ahead 1-0.Â
Both teams combined for four shots over the final 26 minutes of the first half, including a shot on goal by Ella Favot that forced a save by the Drury goalkeeper. Drury nearly equalized in the 35th minute as their shot bounced off the post and the second chance was pushed wide for a goal kick.Â
In the first half, both teams had five shots with the Hornets holding a 2-1 edge in shots on goal.Â
After the halftime break, the first shot for either side came from the Hornets, as Taylor McFalls forced a save in the 55th minute. Through the 80th minute, the Hornets had three of the four shots in the second half, but Drury was able to breakthrough in the 84th minute to pull level at 1-1, which proved to be the final score as the Hornets and Panthers played to a draw.Â
A LOOK AT THE STATSÂ
The Hornets held a 9-7 shot advantage over the Panthers while also having a 4-2 advantage in shots on goal in the match. Â
Megan Kephart's goal was the first of the season and seventh of her career while Avery Zimmerman picked up the assist. Â
UP NEXTÂ
Emporia State will host Maryville on Saturday, August 29 for their home opener at the ESU Pitch. Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m.Â
