September 18, 2026 - Emporia State soccer kicked off MIAA play with a 3-1 win over Nebraska-Kearney on Friday afternoon at the ESU Pitch.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Emporia State and Nebraska-Kearney both had shots in the early going, with the Lopers being the first to force a save with a shot in the tenth minute. The opening goal for the Hornets came in the 13th minute as Avery Zimmerman found the back of the net. The ball entered the box to find Ella Favot, and after Favot's shot to the lower left was saved, Zimmerman cleaned it up to put Emporia State in front 1-0.
The Hornets continued applying the pressure after their first goal, and after five more shot attempts over the next 18 minutes, Emporia State doubled their advantage off the foot of Rylie Washington. Emporia State attacked down the right wing and after a layoff pass by Aubrey Seltman, Washington beat the keeper to the back post for her first career goal.Â
As the first half wound down, the Hornets had five shots in the final five minutes with the last proving to make the score 3-0. Following a shot by Mia Garza that was initially saved, Amy Paver pounced on the rebound to setup a 3-0 lead heading into the break.Â
In the second 45 minutes, the Lopers managed to hold a 7-3 shot advantage which resulted in goal for the visitors in the closing moments as the Hornets settled with a 3-1 win to open conference play.
A LOOK AT THE STATS
Emporia State had a sizable 15-4 advantage which helped the Hornets to an 18-11 edge with nine shots on goal for Emporia State. Rylie Washington's goal in the 32nd minute was the first of her career while Avery Zimmerman and Amy Paver found the back of the net for the second time this season.
UP NEXT
Emporia State will remain on the ESU Pitch in their next match, hosting Fort Hays State on Sunday, September 20. Kickoff between the Hornets and Tigers is set for 1:00 p.m.
