After a scoreless tie with Duke on Friday, Penn State women’s soccer took on Arkansas on Sunday night and came away with a 4-2 win. Although the first few minutes of the game were slow, Penn State (3-0-1)’s intensity increased throughout the half and remained strong for the duration of the game. Mallory Weber initiated the momentum shift with her first goal and assist to Frannie Crouse’s goal, and Megan Schafer maintained it with two goals of her own. Penn State showcased speed and mastered the basics, while Arkansas let their frustrations get the best of them. The Nittany Lions simply beat the Razorbacks to the ball and, unlike Friday’s tie with Duke, they were able to capitalize. The women seemed much quicker than they were on Friday night. If they can keep it up, this team will be unstoppable.

How It Happened

The game started out slow for both teams with little meaningful action in the first 20 minutes. That wouldn’t last, as Mallory Weber struck first at 26:37 with her third goal of the season. Shortly after, momentous Penn State scored again. Assisted by a fire-hot Mallory Weber, Frannie Crouse put Penn State up 2-0 on Arkansas.

It was Penn State’s game at this point. They dominated on all fronts, especially ball control. They excel at the basics of the game like footwork and passing, and it showed tonight. The Nittany Lions led Arkansas 5-1 in shots in the half.

Penn State started the second half as strong as it ended the first, with a goal from Megan Schafer at 49 minutes to make it a three-goal game. In the second half, Penn State was sure to maintain its 3-0 lead via ball possession. The Nittany Lions were calm and consistent, and Arkansas’s frustration was obvious, as No. 29 Hannah Neece was issued a yellow card.

At 72 minutes into the game, Arkansas’s  finally tallied a goal to make it a 3-1 game. With only 5:12 left in regulation, characteristically resilient Penn State answered with a second goal from Megan Schafer to put the Nittany Lions up 4-1.

At the 89th minute, Arkansas’s Claire Kelly scored off a set piece outside the box for the final point of the game.

Player Of The Game

Captain Mallory Weber’s third goal of the season set off Penn State’s confidence and intensity. Megan Schafer’s two goals were clutch to perpetuate Weber’s intensity. Every member of the team could make a case for player of the game, though, proving that Penn State women’s soccer is deserving of their accolades. Since Weber set the tempo, she gets player of the game.

What’s Next?

Penn State heads to Morgantown on Friday, Sept. 4 for their first away game against West Virginia at 7:00 p.m.