LIMA, Ohio — WVU Tech women's soccer opened the 2026 season on the road Wednesday afternoon, falling 2-0 to (RV) University of Northwestern Ohio at Racer Stadium. The Golden Bears went into halftime down one and continued to look for chances throughout the second half.
Northwestern Ohio took the lead in the seventh minute when Risa Nishida converted a penalty kick at 6:16. Tech recorded its first shot just over 10 minutes later, with junior Julia Silva putting an attempt on goal that was stopped by Northwestern Ohio goalkeeper Sophia Eisner.
The Golden Bears stayed within one through the remainder of the opening half. Freshman goalkeeper Irene Saldaña made a save in the final seconds before the break to keep the score at 1-0 heading into halftime.
Northwestern Ohio added to its advantage in the 54th minute when Ella Beaton-Hill scored off assists from Camila Rico and Stina Johansson. Saldaña came up with another save seven minutes later as Tech continued to work through its bench and look for a way back into the match.
WVU Tech put together its strongest attacking stretch late in the second half. Sophomore Rocío Gutiérrez sent an attempt high in the 82nd minute before Silva put a header on goal in the 85th that Eisner saved. Senior Hannah White followed with Tech's final shot in the 90th minute.
Silva led the Golden Bears with two shots, putting both on goal. Gutiérrez and White added one shot apiece, while Saldaña finished with two saves over the full 90 minutes. Tech recorded three of its four shots after halftime.
The result puts WVU Tech at 0-1 to begin the season.
What's next
WVU Tech remains on the road Saturday, Aug. 29, when the Golden Bears travel to Pikeville, Kentucky, to face the University of Pikeville. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.
Season leaders
Record: 0-1
Shots: Julia Silva, 2; Rocío Gutiérrez, 1; Hannah White, 1
Shots on goal: Julia Silva, 2
Goalkeeper saves: Irene Saldaña, 2
